Source: IUU Risk Intelligence
Author: Pramod Ganapathiraju
Policing the Open Seas report is the most comprehensive global evaluation of Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance to date covering more than 80 countries.
This report document’s latest information to draw a picture of the gaps & strengths in MCS infrastructure, inspections and capabilities in each nation to tackle and control Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. Over a period of five years more than 180 enforcement officials, MCS experts and Government officers from 84 countries were contacted for consultation and feedback at different stages of this MCS analysis. 52 confidential interviews were also conducted with enforcement officials in developing countries. It is pertinent to note that there is hardly any published literature to estimate MCS effectiveness in the fisheries sector and hence this global study constitutes the first step in seeking accountability from coastal states.
Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance evaluations for 84 countries covers nations landing 92% of world’s fish catch. Using a wide range of interviews and in-country consultations with both military and civilian agencies, the report exemplifies the best attempt by the author(s) at evaluation of MCS compliance using 12 questions derived from international fisheries laws. The twelve questions are divided into two evaluation fields, (MCS Infrastructure and Inspections). Complete details of the methods and results of this global evaluation would be published shortly through a global report later this year.
A series of 21 country reports will made public in the coming months and the rest will be published as a book through a global report later this year.