IUU fishing poses a severe threat to ocean health, contributing to significant declines in fish populations and financial losses for the fishing industry. It accounts for 11 to 19% of unreported catches, impacting food security for billions. The Sea Foundation highlights the environmental and human rights issues related to this practice, particularly in France, where illegal fishing is prevalent. To address these challenges, a comprehensive strategy involving transparency and responsible consumer choices is advocated.
Understanding the Impact of IUU Fishing
The illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing industry is a significant threat to the health of our oceans, generating billions in profit each year. With alarming declines in fish populations and growing concerns from the global community, the Sea Foundation has highlighted the burdens of this illicit fishing practice that many nations are struggling to manage effectively.
The Consequences of Overfishing and Human Exploitation
Recent findings indicate that IUU fishing contributes an estimated 11 to 19% more catches than what is officially reported, equating to an additional 11 to 26 million tons on top of the 80 million tons harvested annually. This illegal activity results in a staggering loss of revenue for the fishing industry, ranging between 10 to 23 billion dollars each year.
Sabine Roux de Bézieux, president of the Sea Foundation, emphasizes the far-reaching implications of IUU fishing, stating, “This issue extends beyond mere fishing; it threatens the food security of our planet, as three billion people rely on seafood for sustenance.” Moreover, Philippe Vallette, an oceanographer and scientific council member of the Sea Foundation, highlights that IUU fishing poses both environmental and human rights challenges, with reports of modern slavery and forced labor on vessels engaged in these illegal practices.
Across various regions, from simple underreporting in European docks to severe exploitation involving fishermen trapped at sea, the problem of IUU fishing is pervasive.
In France, the situation is particularly dire, as the European Union stands as the largest seafood importer globally, sourcing 70% of its fish from foreign markets. The average French citizen consumes around 32 kg of fish annually, significantly more than the global average of 20 kg. Moreover, France’s vast maritime territory, the second largest in the world, is heavily impacted by these illegal activities, especially in regions like French Guiana, where foreign IUU fishing pressures have increased dramatically over the past decade.
To combat these challenges, the Sea Foundation advocates for a comprehensive strategy that includes 89 measures, referred to as the ‘Al Capone’ plan. This initiative aims to track the criminal networks associated with IUU fishing while implementing direct actions against these illegal activities. According to Roux de Bézieux, “We require greater transparency in this sector and the establishment of a robust fishing diplomacy.” Furthermore, consumers are encouraged to be vigilant about their purchases, opting for local and responsibly sourced seafood to help mitigate this critical issue.