Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Securing Somali Fisheries

Secure Fisheries published on 16 September 2015 a lengthy report titled "Securing Somali Fisheries." It is the most comprehensive study of the Somali fishing sector to date.  It documents the negative impact of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing by foreign vessels from many countries on the sustainability and profitability of Somali fisheries.  Fishing vessels from the following countries are believed to be the main offenders: Iran, Yemen, Spain, Egypt, France, Seychelles, South Korea, Taiwan, Italy, and Pakistan. 

The report identifies opportunities for Somalis to combat illegal fishing, protect commercially important stocks, and improve fisheries governance to promote stability and income security.  It also highlights ways for the international community to move away from unhindered exploitation of Somali resources and toward supporting Somalis in their quest for sustainable fisheries.