The American Security Project this past week issued a new report on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing.
According to the report, “Bad Catch: Examining Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing,” IUU fishing threatens global maritime security while exacerbating food insecurity, marine degradation, organized crime, and poverty. Increased competition over dwindling marine resources has led to the evasion of fisheries authorities and the flourishing of corruption and transnational organized crime.
The “Bad Catch” report explores the connections between IUU fishing and national security policy. The USA and allies need a strengthened approach to combat IUU fishing; otherwise, the tensions amongst fishing nations could threaten geopolitical stability, according to the report’s authors.
David Haines, co-author of “Bad Catch,” said:
“Without robust engagement from the U.S. government, IUU fishing will continue to have a detrimental and costly impact on U.S. national security while continue to deteriorate our oceans and marine ecosystems.”
The report was the focus of a September 29th, 2021 event that featured Liberian Defense Minister Daniel Ziankahn, retired US Navy Admiral William Fallon, US Coast Guard Rear Admiral Scott Clendenin, Sea Shepherd Captain Alex Cornelissen and others.
Check out the full report at americansecurityproject.org.
