Laws and Frameworks

Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is a major threat to marine ecosystems and sustainable fishing practices. To tackle this problem, one of the essential tasks is to establish stronger, more effective laws and international frameworks.

In recent years, several international agreements have been made to combat IUU fishing. The Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA) is one such agreement that aims to prevent IUU fishing by strengthening port controls. (Check out the FAO website for more information.) The Agreement on the Implementation of the Provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) relating to the Conservation and Management of Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks (UNFSA) is another example of an international framework that addresses IUU fishing. (Check out the UN website for more information.)

However, to be effective, these agreements must be enforced. Governments and fishing industry stakeholders must work together to ensure that regulations are implemented and enforced. There must be penalties for non-compliance, and these penalties must be significant enough to deter illegal fishing practices.

Moreover, the international community must work together to address gaps in existing frameworks and identify areas for improvement. For example, some IUU fishing practices occur in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Addressing IUU fishing in these areas requires international cooperation and agreements that are specific to these regions.

By establishing stronger, more effective laws and international frameworks, we can ensure that IUU fishing is reduced, and marine ecosystems are protected for future generations.