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

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

The Observance of International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing aims to raise awareness about illegal fishing. This issue currently threatens marine ecosystems, sustainable fisheries, and the livelihoods of those who rely on them. This international observance highlights the need for coordinated action and cooperation among countries, regional fisheries management organizations, and other stakeholders to effectively address the IUU fishing problem. It focuses on the importance of adhering to the United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals, particularly the 14th goal which outlines the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources.

This observance was established in 2015 by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and was first celebrated on June 5, 2018. It serves as an urgent reminder for the United Kingdom, which boasts a rich maritime heritage and a significant fishing industry, employing around 12,000 people directly and many more indirectly. IUU fishing poses a threat to UK's sustainable fish stocks and has negative socio-economic impacts on coastal communities, as well as undermining global efforts to combat overfishing and promote the responsible management of our marine resources.

Typically, events to mark the International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing in the United Kingdom involve educational programs, awareness campaigns, seminars, and workshops focusing on the negative impacts of IUU fishing and the importance of global collaboration in tackling this issue. Conservation organizations, fisheries authorities, and industry stakeholders collaborate on these initiatives, aiming to inspire action and engagement from the public, policymakers, and the fishing industry alike. The International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing is observed annually on June 5, aligning with the United Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable marine practices and the global battle against the illegal and destructive fishing methods.

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.
• A UK Royal Navy warship in 2004 patrolling West African waters under the FISH-i Africa initiative, which is a regional partnership of eight countries working against IUU fishing, helped seize a Belize-registered trawler called the Labiko 2 that was illegally fishing off Sierra Leone. The seizure marked a significant cooperative effort to combat IUU fishing in the region.
• The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is the body responsible for enforcing and regulating fishing within the UK. The MMO works with other national and international organizations, such as the North Atlantic Fisheries Organization, to combat IUU fishing practices.

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

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• Explore the Port State Measures that countries agreed to in order to prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
• Tour places like the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, the Scottish Seabird Centre, or the Marine Conservation Society to learn more about marine life and the importance of protecting it.