Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU). These three adjectives ultimately jeopardize the whole of the fisheries sector. IUU fishing can destroy the livelihoods of fishing communities, harm food security and nutrition, damage fair local and international trade and often give way to unsafe and indecent working conditions, sometimes even crime.
IUU fishing includes everything from fishing without a license and not accurately reporting catches to fishing in prohibited areas or periods and catching or selling protected species. IUU fishing undermines regional, national and even international efforts to make fisheries sustainable, important for ensuring that marine resources are available in the future, that livelihoods are protected and that species survive. Several countries around the world are combating IUU fishing with FAO’s support and making noteworthy progress.
As we mark 5 June, the International Day for the Fight Against IUU fishing, here are just some highlights of progress made:
Restoring trade in Guinea
Like in football, countries can receive penalties and associated warnings for their actions. In 2012, following concerns about IUU fishing controls in the country, Guinea received a yellow card from the European Union, followed by a red card in 2014. This action essentially blocked access to Europe’s substantial market for Guinea’s seafood products.
Collaborating closely with FAO and partners, Guinea prioritized ending IUU fishing by implementing the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA), a tool aimed at preventing vessels engaged in IUU fishing from using ports and landing their catches. Just two years later, through Guinea’s incredible efforts, the EU trade sanctions were lifted, and Guinea had become one of the front runners in the fight against IUU fishing. The nation’s president was even honored with the Prize of Excellence as a Political Champion in Fisheries at the World Conference on the Blue Economy in Kenya.