Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) foreign fishing has not only deprived Somalia of desperately needed revenue, but has also harmed their marine environment through overfishing valuable species.
The President mentioned Somalia’s recent legislation to combat IUU fishing, such as the establishment of a 200-nautical-mile EEZ, and the passing of the Somali Fisheries Law that explicitly bans bottom trawling. To strengthen this legislation, the President suggests that Somalia work toward “improved monitoring of fish landings, an ecosystem-based approach to fisheries’ management whereby the area would be managed holistically, and the protection of threatened and endangered fish species.” To do this, the President insists that Somalia needs international help, especially in the monitoring, control, and surveillance of their vast EEZ.
Secure Fisheries is honored that our report reached the President and we hope that his words will encourage further international action to help Somalia combat IUU fishing.
Read the full op-ed here: neurope.eu/article/somalias-new-pirates/
