Fighting IUU fishing

01/06/2022

Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing remains one of the greatest threats to marine ecosystems as it undermines national and regional efforts to manage fisheries sustainably as well as endeavours to conserve marine biodiversity.

Fisheries resources available to bona fide fishers are removed by IUU fishing, which can lead to the collapse of local fisheries, with small-scale fisheries in developing countries proving particularly vulnerable.

On the occasion of the International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing 2022, have a look at FAO’s resources showcasing the Organization’s work to counter IUU fishing.

For additional resources, have a look at the publications catalogue. 

Implementation of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries
This booklet offers a glimpse into the objectives of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries and the instruments and guidelines built on the Code over the last 25 years in support of the implementation of its wide-ranging provisions. More on the Code here.

Joining forces to shape the fishery sector of tomorrow: Promoting safety and decent work in fisheries through the application of international standards
This brochure showcases some international binding fisheries conventions and agreements that promote the safety of fishers and their vessels, the training of fishers, and responsible fisheries operations.

Understanding and implementing catch documentation schemes - a guide for national authorities
Catch documentation schemes (CDS) assist countries in obtaining information about the legality of fish. This guide includes the legal and policy background to CDS, an introduction to the features and requirements of existing schemes, and guidance on how to identify key data elements.

Further reading 

• Agreement on port State measures to prevent, deter and eliminate illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing
• Implementation of Port State Measures
• The Global Record of fishing vessels, refrigerated transport vessels and supply vessels
• The Global Record of fishing vessels, refrigerated transport vessels and supply vessels. How to participate
• Report of the Third Meeting of the Parties to the Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing

Forthcoming

• The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2022
• Incorporation of the Voluntary Guidelines for the Marking of Fishing Gear in national fisheries legislative framework

Additional resources

FAO and Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing website