5 June: International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing

Background of the Day

In 2015, the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), proposed the creation of an International Day dedicated to combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. After extensive consultations, the proposal was presented to the 32nd session of the FAO Committee on Fisheries.

The Committee endorsed the idea of designating 5 June as the International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing. This date marks the entry into force of the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA), the first legally binding international treaty specifically designed to address IUU fishing on a global scale.

The Impact of Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing

Fisheries are a crucial source of food, employment, and economic prosperity for millions worldwide. As the global population rises and food insecurity intensifies, fish has become an essential part of meeting nutritional needs. However, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities pose a significant threat to the sustainability of fisheries.

According to the FAO, IUU fishing results in the loss of an estimated 11 to 26 million tonnes of fish each year, with economic losses ranging from US$10 billion to US$23 billion. These losses not only endanger marine ecosystems but also jeopardize the livelihoods of communities that depend on fisheries.

To address this challenge, Target 4 of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, calls on the global community to “effectively regulate harvesting and end overfishing, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and destructive fishing practices” by 2020. This target highlights the urgent need for international cooperation and strong enforcement to safeguard marine resources.

Understanding Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing

Illegal fishing involves fishing activities conducted by vessels in violation of national laws or international obligations, such as fishing without authorization, operating in prohibited areas, or using banned gear.

Unreported fishing refers to fishing activities that are not reported or are misreported to relevant authorities, hindering effective monitoring and management of fisheries.

Unregulated fishing encompasses fishing by vessels without nationality or those operating in areas or for fish stocks where no applicable conservation or management measures exist.

Why Combating IUU Fishing Matters

• Environmental Impact: IUU fishing disrupts marine ecosystems, depletes fish stocks, and damages critical habitats such as coral reefs and seagrass beds.
• Economic Consequences: It causes significant financial losses to legal fishers, governments, and coastal communities that rely on fisheries.
• Threat to Food Security: As fish remains a primary source of protein for billions, IUU fishing undermines global food security, especially in developing nations.
• Undermining Governance: It weakens legal frameworks and fisheries management, fostering corruption and criminal activity.

Global Efforts to Combat IUU Fishing

Tackling IUU fishing requires coordinated action at the international level, including:

• Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA): This treaty empowers countries to deny port access and services to vessels involved in IUU fishing, limiting their ability to operate.
• Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs): These organizations facilitate cooperation among countries to manage and conserve shared fish stocks.
• Technological Solutions: Satellite monitoring, vessel tracking systems, and electronic reporting enhance transparency and enforcement.
• Capacity Building: Supporting developing countries in strengthening their ability to monitor and manage fisheries resources.

How Individuals and Communities Can Help

While government and international collaboration are essential, individuals and communities also play a vital role:

• Choose Sustainable Seafood: Opt for seafood certified by reputable organizations committed to sustainable fishing practices.
• Raise Awareness: Inform others about the dangers of illegal fishing and the importance of marine conservation.
• Advocate for Stronger Policies: Engage with policymakers to promote robust fisheries governance and enforcement.
• Support Community Initiatives: Participate in or back local efforts focused on protecting marine environments and promoting sustainable fisheries.

The Significance of the International Day

The International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing, observed annually on 5 June, serves to:

• Raise global awareness about the threat IUU fishing poses to marine biodiversity and human well-being.
• Highlight progress in implementing international agreements such as the PSMA.
• Encourage cooperation among countries, organizations, and stakeholders to intensify efforts against IUU fishing.
• Reinforce commitments to sustainable fisheries management and marine conservation as part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Visual Insights

The images below illustrate the challenges of illegal fishing and the importance of sustainable fisheries:

Conclusion

Combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated fishing is essential to preserving marine ecosystems, supporting livelihoods, and ensuring food security worldwide. Observing this International Day on 5 June reminds us of our shared responsibility to promote sustainable fishing and uphold international agreements like the Port State Measures Agreement.

By working together across borders and sectors, we can protect our oceans for future generations and secure a sustainable future for fisheries around the world.

For more information, visit the FAO’s official page on IUU fishing and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14.