A wide range of stakeholders are meeting in Copenhagen to discuss ways of dealing with illegal fishing in the Baltic Sea. The first day of the conference was set aside to discuss different perspectives on the problem, the drivers behind it, its consequences and possible steps forward.
More than 140 stakeholders met in Copenhagen today (Wednesday 28 March) to discuss illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities in the Baltic Sea, and how control and compliance efforts can be strengthened. As the Danish Fisheries Minister, Hans Christian Schmidt, stated in his opening presentation, the aim of the conference is to “work towards a culture of compliance” throughout the Baltic Sea region.
A range of presentations covered the effects of the unaccounted catches on scientific stock assessments and the perspectives of different stakeholders. Currently, illegal fishing is estimated to be between 35-45 per cent of the catches. This is severely affecting the quality of scientific advice for the stocks, but also credibility with consumers and the market prices offered for cod. Participants agreed that something has to be done to address the unreported catches, their effect on market prices and issues of trust in relation to consumers.
Overcapacity, the scientific target in terms of spawning stock biomass (SSB) leading to a low TAC and a low risk of being caught were all identified as drivers behind the unregistered fishing activities. In addition, it was shown many parts of the fleet are in the red and have to conduct unreported fishing to stay afloat.
After the first day of the conference, Baltic Ministers met to agree on a ministerial declaration. Today, discussions on steps forward will continue.