Regional patterns in coordination and cooperation in the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing

Abstract

Abstract Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF) is a complex and multifaceted problem that often requires considerable resources to combat effectively. Regional cooperation allows States to pool assets, conduct joint patrols, and create common regional policies. Four case studies from developing regions (West Africa, Latin America, East Asia, and the Pacific Islands) illustrate how different cooperation strategies result in variable responses and impacts on IUUF. A number of common themes relating to cooperation were identified, including transparency and data sharing, common laws and regulations, coordinated monitoring, control and surveillance (MCS) measures, and partnerships with regional fisheries bodies and non-governmental organisations. Obstacles preventing effective regional cooperation also emerged, such as incoherent legal frameworks. The identification of common themes provides insight into the effectiveness of regional cooperation initiatives to address IUUF. This suggests a way forward for the development of such strategies, which may include joint fishery surveillance operations, regional observer programmes, and regional plans of action on IUUF.

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