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

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

The International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing seeks to raise awareness about IUU fishing's detrimental effects on fish stocks, marine ecosystems, and the livelihoods of those who depend on sustainable fishing. It highlights the importance of sustainable fishing practices, keeping seafood traceable and regulated, and contributing to the overall health of our oceans. Though it was initially established by the United Nations (UN) in 2017, the International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing holds significant relevance for New Zealand's fishing communities and industries. New Zealand boasts some of the world's most sustainable fisheries, with its Quota Management System that controls harvesting in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Unfortunately, the country is not exempt from the global issue of IUU fishing. By supporting this observance, New Zealanders can contribute to stopping illegal practices and protecting their nation's precious marine resources and ecosystems.

Typical customs for the International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing in New Zealand may include educational events, seminars, and workshops discussing sustainability, updates on legal regulations in fisheries, and the collaboration of industry leaders to tackle IUU fishing practices. The day promotes seafood traceability, sharing information about resources, and community involvement in supporting sustainable fisheries. The International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing occurs annually on June 5th to sustain focus on this important issue affecting New Zealand's marine resources and international reputation.

Facts about Illegal & Unregulated Fishing

• According to estimates by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities result in global losses of approximately $23 billion per year.
• Studies suggest that illegal fishing accounts for approximately 20% of the global marine catch.
• The Global Ocean Commission estimates that approximately 90% of the world's fisheries are fully exploited, overexploited, or depleted.
• IUU fishing has been a significant concern in New Zealand's sub-Antarctic waters, including the Ross Sea. Foreign vessels, especially from Asian and Eastern European countries, have been found engaging in illegal fishing activities targeting high-valued species like toothfish and krill.
• New Zealand has implemented an electronic catch reporting system for commercial fishers, which requires reporting of catch and effort data. The government is also introducing a new geospatial monitoring system to ensure greater transparency and traceability across the fishing sector.

In the News and Trending in NZ for International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing

Top things to do in NZ for this observance

• Explore the Port State Measures that countries agreed to in order to prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
• Watch a documentary to learn more about illegal fishing practices in New Zealand. Here are our recommendations:
  1. The Price of Fish (2011)- This New Zealand documentary investigates the exploitation of fish stocks in the Southern Ocean, touching on issues such as illegal fishing and environmental impact.
  2. Poachers, Fish and the Mafia (2018): This two-part New Zealand documentary series investigates the illegal fishing crisis affecting the country and the threats these criminal activities pose to the nation's marine ecosystem.
  3. Chasing the Thunder (2018): A film by the co-founders of the Oceanic Preservation Society, this documentary follows the Sea Shepherd crew as they chase a notorious illegal fishing vessel, the Thunder, which was active in New Zealand waters.
• Celebrate today and visit the New Zealand Maritime Museum. Located in Auckland, the museum showcases New Zealand's maritime history and the role of fishing in the country's development. Learn about the sustainable fishing practices adopted by New Zealand and how they combat IUU fishing.