The UK Government, Global Fishing Watch and the Joint Analytical Cell (JAC) already work closely together to tackle IUU fishing through an innovative pilot project in the Philippines funded by the UK Government’s Integrated Security Fund. The LoI, which is focussed primarily on IUU fishing builds on this cooperation and will enable the Royal Navy MDAP and Global Fishing Watch to share information, data and technical advice on maritime activity.
‘Effective fisheries management is essential to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific,’ said UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West.
‘It protects ocean ecosystems, supporting vulnerable coastal communities, resilient global food supplies and regional prosperity. This partnership between the Royal Navy and Global Fishing Watch underscores the UK’s on-going commitment to security, prosperity and sustainable economic development in the Indo-Pacific.’
At the UN Oceans Conference in 2022, the UK co-launched the IUU Fishing Action Alliance Pledge with the US and Canada to drive international efforts to tackle IUUF along with other international government and non-government partners. This announcement is seen as a tangible example of government and non-government partners working together, using data and innovative tools to tackle shared global challenges.
‘We believe open data and increased transparency hold the key to better ocean stewardship. By using Automatic Identification System (AIS), Vessel Monitoring System (VMS), satellite, and other data, we are increasing awareness of ocean activity, including identifying patterns of IUU fishing, through our online map,’ said Global Fishing Watch CEO Tony Long, commenting that advancing efforts to build a global maritime database improves the overall understanding of maritime domain awareness and enhances collective ability to assess threats and identify risks, including IUU fishing.
‘This is helping governments, businesses, and NGOs develop a fuller understanding of high-risk areas and tailor policies and regulations that support local economies, safeguard marine habitats, and combat IUU fishing for the good of all.’
