FAO.org

Recently the FAO IPOA seabirds website was updated to include all national action plans and added a new section of regional measures implemented by regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs). The role of Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs) is essential for the implementation of the International Plan of Action for Reducing Incidental Catch of Seabirds in Longline Fisheries (IPOA-Seabirds). RFMOS facilitate implementation by inter alia:

• Promoting regional cooperation and Operationalizing the IPOA-Seabirds: RFMOs translate the voluntary guidelines of the IPOA into binding regional regulations, ensuring that seabird bycatch mitigation becomes part of actual fishing practices.
• Standardize Best Practices: They promote the use of proven mitigation measures (e.g., bird-scaring lines, night setting, weighted lines) across fleets operating in their regions.
• Monitor Compliance: RFMOs have mechanisms to monitor and enforce compliance with seabird protection measures, including observer programs and vessel monitoring systems.
• Data Collection and Research: RFMOs support research on seabird interactions with fisheries and collect data to assess the effectiveness of mitigation measures.

The website also provides details regarding the objectives, implementation, links to other relevant publications and guidelines, and provides explanation regarding the role of FAO and the legal foundation.

IPOA Seabirds website https://www.fao.org/ipoa-seabirds/en