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The Misconduct of International Ocean Treaties: Fishing Practices

Mallory Duprey

Mr. Toole

May 15, 2017

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Table of Contents

Preface .... 3

Summary of Research Methods ..... 6

Significance 7

Background .. 11

Expert ... 13

Role of Control .... 18

Religion 21

Logic of Evil .... 23

Case Studies

Japan .... 26

United States 29

Galapagos Islands .... 31

Canadian Connection ... 35

Role of International Organizations . 39

Solutions .. 45

Works Cited .... 48

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Preface

The use of illegal fishing practices is common around the world today. To capture a
greater quantity of the species in a quicker time period, methods are used which compromise the
health of the oceans, ecosystems, and species within them. In todays society, time and material
efficient methods are most commonly used without care of the possible repercussions. These
methods are being used by large corporations, nation run fisheries and by independent fishermen.
Many of the cases relating to the misuse of fishing practices remain undocumented as higher
authorities do not want this information to be well known. The topic of the misuse of fishing
practices is not commonly discussed in the media today. However, when this topic is publically
discussed, the primary focuses are the consequences that ensure, rather than the current state of
the worlds oceans. Unfortunately, this gives reason for the majority of the population to ignore
the source of the current problems the oceans are experiencing. The misuse of fishing practices
and the corruption of international ocean treaties are recognized by governments around the
world. It is also often overlooked. The laws that are currently established are not being properly
enforced and illegal fishing practices and the intrusion of international waters continues to occur.

The demand for seafood products is increasing globally. The countries with industries
requiring a high demand for fish products are experiencing high rates of overfishing; therefore a
reduction in local fish populations correlatively. This change is most prominent in third world
countries as they are the leading countries in fish product exportation. In 2014, 54% of seafood
exports came from developing countries. The consumption of seafood products has increased
globally by 21% between 1992 and 2002 (msc). According to the Fishing and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations, the FAO, the global capture production of fisheries
increased by approximately four million between 2010 and 2014 (fao). Many of the fish
populations effected by the increase in capture productions were ebbed by corporations who do
not follow poorly enforced laws. Few laws referring to international water have been created,
and if they have they are not being properly enforced.

Misconduct is the act of unacceptable or improper behavior, usually by an authority

figure or worker. Misconduct is an overview about the improper use, poor enforcement of and
the corruption of international ocean treaties, specifically the fishing methods that are being
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practiced. Enforcement of rules refers to observance of laws, treaties, or obligations. In the

fishing industry enforcement of the current laws is not proper which results in many issues
relating to ecosystems. Often, corruption and the use of fishing methods that have been banned
occurs and goes unpunished. The corruption of international ocean treaties is common among all
international waters. The act of corruption is when an individual or group in a position of
authority exerts a form of conduct in an unethical or dishonest manner. Corruption entails acts
such as: bribery, embezzlement, and illegal practices. Corruption usually exists around authority
figures and therefore almost always goes unpunished or undocumented. Corruption occurs
internationally, meaning it takes place in more than one nation. This act can also transpire
between two or more nations. An ocean treaty is a formally concluded agreement between
countries pertaining to the responsibilities of a country to protect and respect their ocean waters
and how they are being used (unlawoftheseatreaty). The term fish is very broad in this definition
as it refers to many aquatic animal species.

There are many forms of fishing practices. Fishing practices encompass the techniques
and equipment used by fishermen when catching fish in either large or small quantities. The use
of illegal or non-eco conscious fishing methods has become very common. These methods are
increasing in popularity and put susceptible aquatic species not expected to be fished in danger.
One method that contributes to this endangerment is long lining. Long lining is a technique
mainly used by commercial fisheries that uses a long line with baited hooks attached at intervals
upon the main line. These lines are catching and killing animals who get tangled in the lines or
drawn in by the bait (stopsharkfinning). Fish farming has gained popularity and contributes to
the rising numbers of overfishing. Overfishing is when larger numbers of fish are caught
compared to what can be naturally replaced through reproduction. More than 85% of the worlds
fisheries have been pushed to or beyond their biological limits (worldwildlife). The
consequences of overfishing affect both the balance of life in the oceans and the social and
economic well-being of coastal communities, some of which depend on fish for survival. When a
geographical area experiences large decreases in fish populations the corporations may begin to
fish in international waters. Many times this happens without the use of a proper permit. An
international fisheries report stated that
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The worldwide value of illegal unreported and unregulated fishing catches is somewhere
between $4 billion and $9 billion per year. Approximately $1.25 billion of this illegally
captured fish is thought to be taken from the high seas, with the remainder fished illegally
within 200-mile limits of coastal states. (dfo-mpo.gc)

The problems that the misuse of fishing practices creates increases the severity for the need of
laws and regulations to be formulated and enforced. With the fish populations decreasing, fishing
practices and illegal processes are increasing. This occurs because many fisheries attempt, and
succeed, to work around the already existing laws and permits that are in place. The seafood
industry is continuing to grow therefore, due to a rise in the effort to fish, the misuse of fishing
practices is becoming increasingly common.

With the increases in demand for seafood products, fisheries and independent fishers are
no longer using safe techniques and following proper laws. The poor enforcement of
international ocean treaties relating to fishing practices is a global issue which has the potential
to become an even larger issue in the near future. If the current laws in place continue to not be
enforced the worlds oceans will continue to decline in health and sustainability. This issue needs
to become more globally recognized to receive more attention which could potentially begin to
reverse the current damage.
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Summary of Research Methods

This report includes information on the misconduct and corruption of international ocean
treaties, the misuse of fishing practices, and the poor enforcement of laws pertaining to the
oceans. Information and statistics are provided about the history of this misconduct in the past
and present. Figures about future statistics that have been determined through experiments and
collected data are also included. This report analyzes the issue and how it affects the world in
different aspects, each on a global scale. The purpose of this report is to provide an
understanding of the topic and the severity of the consequences on an international level.

The research included in this issue-based report was obtained using a variety of sources.
The sources used to conduct this research are reliable internet articles that were accessed through
online databases, YouTube videos such as TED Talks and vice, documentaries, websites of
international organizations, websites of online articles, PDF files, and an interview that was
conducted over email. These research sources provide background knowledge on the misconduct
of international ocean treaties, the misuse of fishing practices, and the poor enforcement of the
current laws that are in place. Many of the sources depicted only one side of the topic being
discussed in this issue-based report, because of this, multiple articles with different perspectives
were utilized to prevent bias.
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Significance

Put simply, the misconduct of international ocean treaties and fishing practices is driving
the world and its ecosystems in danger. Humans use their dominance and power over animals
and the environment. Fishing has transformed into an industry that carelessly murders species of
fish that may not be wanted by fishermen, however it is a quicker and more convenient way to
fish. This mind set is leading to non-environmentally conscious decisions that may benefit large
industries at the expense of ecosystems. Many of the practices that are being improperly used
may situate human life at risk and are destroying habitats and species of aquatic wildlife. Many
repercussions are associated with these situations. The mistreatment and abuse of fishing
methods, illegally fishing in international waters, overfishing, and bycatch are all contributing
factors to the problems that are arising in the oceans.

The misuse of fishing methods and equipment is a large contribution to this issue. When
fishing equipment is used for convenience purposes or are lost or forgotten about, they can be
extremely destructive. Ghost fishing is when fishing equipment is lost or forgotten in the water
and continues to capture fish (environmentalscience). When this phenomenon occurs it is
incredibly wasteful and destructive. Aquatic species and other animals such as birds have the
potential to get caught in these discarded fishing lines. This is harmful because the animals that
are not intentionally caught will not be harvested or used in anyway, essentially becoming waste
themselves. Crab pots are a second example of fishing equipment that can become lost, and
therefore harmful. If the buoy attached to the crab pot becomes detached, fishermen will not be
able to easily identify where the crab pots were located. Crab pots have small openings that not
only attract crabs but also diamond back terrapins, a small species of turtle. Animals that are able
to enter these traps are not able to easily exit. Multiple turtles will collect in one pot as they are
social animals. Only male terrapin are able to fit into these pots which also causes concerns
relating to reproduction levels of the species. This is troublesome for the crabs and terrapins
pertaining to mortality rates (environmentalscience). With large numbers of animals becoming
caught in vacant fishing equipment, species populations are decreasing and are consequently
rendered futile.
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Introduced species also pose to be a result from illegally fishing in international waters.
Introduced species are an invasive and non-native aquatic species. These species can be any
organism that now exits somewhere in water where they do not naturally belong. These new
species of animals are able to travel to new locations by stowing away in a ships ballast. The
ships ballast will be released along with anything that is inside of it once the ship has reached its
intended destination. National Geographic released these numbers, some 45 000 cargo ships
move more than 10 billion tons of ballast water around the world each year
(ocean.nationalgeographic). When these invasive species arrive at the new location, there are
three possibilities of what will become of them. The new species can die off in its new habitat, it
could survive with little environmental impact, or it can take the new habitat over and harm the
naturally existing wildlife (ocean.nationalgeographic). This is significant due to the fact that
introduced species will damage the preexisting species in their new ecosystems. This occurs
because the new ecosystem does not have a predator to control the population of the invasive
species. This allows the invasive species to then consume native species, compete for food and
space, or introduce disease to the native species.

Illegally fishing in international waters is unregulated and usually unreported. This occurs
in many types of fisheries within small and large scale industries. Illegal fishing accounts for
approximately 20% of the worlds catch and as much as up to 50% of a single fisherys catch
(worldwildlife). This is a problem because of the fact that illegal fishing can put fish populations
and human lives in danger.

Overfishing is the main cause of the dwindling numbers of fish populations in

ecosystems. With a spike in the worldwide seafood industry some species of fish have been
overfished to the point of near extinction. More than 85% of the worlds fisheries have been
pushed to or beyond their biological limits (worldwildlife). Overfishing is occurring due to many
reasons. The oceans are currently infested with numerous large industry vessels that can be
deployed deep into the oceans (eschooltoday).Unsustainable fishing methods that catch too much
of one species to a degree that they begin to become endangered are another contributing reason
to overfishing. Overfishing causes a decline in biodiversity, the destruction of ecosystems, and
economic impacts.
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The economy is also put at risk when misconduct of fishing practices occurs. Since many
ecosystems are being destroyed or left empty, many fisheries are forced to be abandoned. In an
article published in 2013 by Business Insider it states that

More than 80 other nations are involved in the fishing trade, an industry that
generates $102 billion dollars yearly. In addition to providing food and livelihoods, the
oceans help absorb 25% of our carbon emissions and international trade generates
trillions of dollars in commerce thanks to the unobstructed transit routes the oceans
provide for shipping. Although commercial fishing has grown tremendously in the past
50 years, 30% of the worlds fisheries are overexploited, depleted or recovering from
depletion. (businessinsider)

With the destruction of the fishing industry the world is threatening millions who are employed
with careers relating to it and billions of people who rely on seafood for nutrition globally. The
surge in the fishing industry increased the job market, however is now resulting in decreasing
fish populations, which will ultimately lead to a decrease in the job market and economy as well.

When fishing practices are used in unconventional ways, it can result in bycatch. Bycatch
is when non-targeted species are incidentally caught. These animals will usually be discarded as
they will be dead by the time they are noticed by fishermen. Longline fishing, trawling, and
gillnets are the major bycatch providers. Longline fishing is often used in open ocean and is
kilometers of lines with thousands of baited hooks that are attached to the main line. Trawlings
are able to easily drown animals who depend on the ocean surface for air, such as turtles.
Gillnets are staked to the ocean floor and many animals are entrapped by them. Environmental
Science that is run by university students released the following statistics,

The collective toll from these practices is staggering. Over the past twenty years, an
estimated 85,000 sea turtles have been killed as bycatch. Additionally, an estimated
300,000 marine mammals, 160,000 albatross and 3 million sharks are lost to bycatch
from fishing practices each year. This high rate of mortality is not sustainable for these
animal populations. (dujs.dartmouth)
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Bycatching is adding to the marine species that are becoming functionally extinct. When this
occurs, the biodiversity within the ocean declines as each habitat and ecosystem is no longer able
to support a wide range of marine life.

All of these factors account for the destruction of the oceans ecosystems. Habitat
destruction is occurring because of the increasingly large number of fish removed from the
oceans and the fishing practices that are destroying aquatic habitats. Practices such as dredging
and seafloor trawling churn up the sediments along the seafloor which causes them to become
suspended in the water of that area, decreasing the water quality (environmentalscience). The act
of equipment being pulled along the seafloor destroys corals, oysters, and sponges. Meaning,
ecosystems lose the valuable services provided by coral reefs, such as coastal protection and
revenue through tourism (environmentalscience). The oceans ecosystems are vital to the world
as they are a major source of oxygen and other necessities.

In conclusion, there are many reasons why the misconduct of international ocean treaties,
and fishing practices is significant. The misuse of fishing methods and equipment can lead to
other problems such as the effects on the economy and the effects on the oceans ecosystems.
Illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing is also an issue that connects to the topic of
overfishing. Each of these points relate to each other or share similar properties.
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Background

The misconduct of international ocean treaties and the misuse of fishing practices is a
newer issue. The act of misconduct towards the oceans, however, can be dated back as early as
the 17th century when the New England economy and many people relied on fishing cod for their
livelihood (environmentalscience). It has been in recent years that new technologies and gear
have been manufactured, allowing fisheries to remove aquatic animals from the oceans in mass
numbers.

These acts have gained in popularity in recent years, such as the introduction of new
fishing technologies. Some include: cyanide fishing which is when fishers squirt sodium cyanide
into the water to stun fish without killing them, making them easier to catch. This was introduced
in the 1960s. Bottom trawling, a technique that utilizes large nets that pass over any rough
surface, was introduced in the 1980s. Dynamite fishing, where explosives are set off under
water were first used twenty years ago (wwf.panda). These advancements in technologies have
made it easier for fisheries to misuse fishing practices, causing damage to the ecosystems.

The seafood industry has also increased in popularity in recent years. In a recent article
written by Bloomberg it is stated that

Fish consumption is growing at a faster pace than beef, pork and poultry, driven by an
expanding, increasingly prosperous global population that recognizes the health benefits
of eating seafood. Demand is forecasted by the United Nations to outstrip supply in
coming years. Wild fish arent going to fill the gap, and that leaves farming in lakes and
coastal waters -- also known as aquaculture -- to make up the shortfall. (bloomberg)

As the fishing industry is becoming more popular, more wealth is being brought into developing
countries, making the seafood products more affordable. This will continue in a cycle until the
oceans are drained of their resources. According to Sarena Lin, the president of Cargills feed
and nutrition business The impact of a growing global population on protein consumption is
daunting: Demand is set to grow by 70 percent by 2050 (bloomberg). This outlines the fact that
the sea food industry has been around for centuries and that it is still continuing to grow.
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Some forms of previous efforts in resolution are the creation of government organizations
and the implementation of laws and treaties. The majority of these however have been
unsuccessful as they are not properly enforced.

The current state of the misconduct and misuse of international ocean treaties and fishing
practices is at all-time highs. This is largely due to: poor fisheries management, pirate fishers,
large scale amounts of bycatch, destructive fishing practices, and unfair fisheries partnership
agreements. This is resulting in the worlds oceans being destroyed as shown through these
statistics from the World Wildlife Foundation

The global fishing fleet is 2-3 times larger than what the oceans can sustainably support.
53% of the worlds fisheries are fully exploited, and 32% are overexploited, depleted, or
recovering from depletion
Most of the top ten marine fisheries, accounting for about 30% of all capture fisheries
production, are fully exploited or overexploited
Several important commercial fish populations have declined to the point where their
survival is threatened
(wwf.panda).

Therefore, the issue of the misconduct and misuse of international ocean treaties and
fishing practices has been a problem for many years and is expected to continue to be one for
many more.
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Expert

Organizations or solo activists are a large portion of the education pertaining to the
problematic methods of fishing. Methods that have resulted in the loss of up to whole
ecosystems. There are many organizations and activists whose main objective is to conserve
marine life. Such organizations and activists may go about doing so through expeditions,
targeted policy campaigns, the creation of documentaries, and through publishing articles or
novels. These groups and individuals may work together when travelling on expeditions where
they attempt to combat the situations. While on excursions they are able to experience the first
hand damages and losses that are currently being experienced around the world.

Les Stroud, most commonly known as the television star Survivorman is most accurately
described as a musician, author, filmmaker, and activist. Survivorman is produced, written,
videotaped, and hosted solely by Stroud. The show documents his real life struggles as he
overcomes obstacles in real survival situations after he puts himself into the wilderness without
shelter, fresh water, food, tools, or any help. Stroud has worked with organizations before in
combating the issues; illegal fishing practices and the destruction of the worlds ecosystems.
Stroud is an ambassador for Shelterbox, an advanced survival trainer for the Canadian Military
Armed Forces, and he is on the board of advisors for the Sea Shepherd Conservation
Organization. He is a member of the Explorers Club, and received Fellow of the Royal Canadian
Geographic Society. Stroud has received the Distinguished Alumni award and was nominated for
the Premieres award for excellence for work in his field.

Stroud recently joined Sea Shepherd, a non-profit marine conservation organization, on

an expedition aboard the organizations ship the Farley Mowat where they collected illegal
fishing nets. Stroud has appeared on television shows: Discovery Channels Shark Week, I
Shouldnt Be Alive, The Science of Survival, Surviving Sharks, Expedition Everest, Surviving
Urban Disasters, The Mad Trapper, Surviving Alaska, The True Story of Robinson Crusoe,
Shark Feeding Frenzy, After the Experiment, Deadly Waters and the documentary feature Off the
Grid with Les Stroud (lesstroud). Stroud is very knowledgeable on the topic of illegal fishing
practices and the effect they have on the ecosystems. He has in depth experience working to take
preventative measures and viewing the damage. Stroud agreed to answer questions relating to the
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issue of the misconduct of international ocean treaties and the misuse of fishing practices over
email. (lesstroud).

Nine questions were asked. Each question was asked so the answer could possibly be
correlated with or compared to research throughout the rest of this paper. All of the questions
were strategically asked to also gain knowledge about the issue of the effects of illegal fishing
practices from a source who has experience in this field. The emails were sent through to Les
Stroud and his executive assistant Lauren Saunders.

How is overfishing in first world countries such as Canada effecting the economy and the
environment?

Overfishing is the blind and sometimes seemingly maniacal attitude of pushing forward with
blinders on and trying to make hay while the sun shines. Its an incredibly selfish mindset that
assumes what is being taken wont affect what is left or what else exists. The environment and
economy are inextricably connected. There is no separation of the two. In fact there should be
one word that encompasses both concepts. Destroy the environment and you destroy the
economy, it is not rocket science.

Who is primarily in charge of fishing regulations, and who has the power to implement change?

I couldnt comment on the politics of who holds the power and where but as far as who has the
power to implement change, that is easy; all of us. The public. The tax payer. The consumer.
You and me.

Is there any logical reason behind overfishing? Can it be justified in third world countries? Or
should regulations still be implemented?

There is no logical reason. Change has to happen, even in third world countries, to make certain
that not a single species of anything goes extinct. Our delicate web of life is quickly becoming a
tangled and tattered web barely clinging on to its foundations. Regulations, rules and laws must
be implemented to secure not only the survival of all the lesser species but also the survival of
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our own species. Education is for intelligent people. Laws are for the ignorant. And there are a
lot of ignorant people out there. This is not to suggest the third world is ignorant for I use that
term as a more generic expression about society throughout the planet as a whole. That said,
many in the third world are not aware of the more global perspective on what is happening
worldwide. They are busy surviving and cant be faulted for simply trying to eat. However
simply trying to eat is not the problem. Massive wiping out of localized species by the
incentives offered by Asian countries to impoverished third world countries often is.

Do you believe there are any logical reasons behind the shark finning industry? Do you believe
there are more sustainable methods to continue this practice?

If shark finning is to be considered a food at all, and I dont personally accept that it should, then
it should be regulated like all other methods of fishing (notwithstanding the fact that the existing
regulations are a joke). Then perhaps it can be included as an off shoot food item combined with
the eating of the entire fish. So that is to say, sure, I would think there are sustainable ways to do
everything. We just arent doing them even to the fish we say are okay to eat.

How is illegal international fishing, such as shark finning boats releasing long lines in Costa
Rica, effecting ecosystems? How is it affecting humanity?

It is systematically, ruthlessly and uncaringly destroying both.

Do you believe there are possible solutions or laws that could be enforced to prevent issues such
as overfishing, illegal international fishing or shark finning? If so, what are some of them?

Of course there are. I am not a politician or a statistician, or a policy maker or a lawyer. But I can
say for certain that those who know how to do it could write it down tonight over a beer and the
solution would be there. At the moment I would venture to say that ALL wildlife even landing in
the area of concern in terms of their population should be granted a moratorium on any
hunting, fishing or collecting and their return to the listing of doing just fine should not happen
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until they are at least 80% of their formal population. Any species climbing back up to 10% of its
formal population should not be considered safe. Money must be spent on enforcement.

Would you be able to elaborate on some experiences you have had relating to illegal
international fishing, the shark finning industry, or non-environmentally efficient fishing methods
such as long line fishing? Or even some experiences from your time when you appeared on
Shark Week?

I have existed in a state of emotional and philosophical struggle as I continue to work to

reconnect people with nature and yet all around me and on every trip I have to confront
pollution, cleared lands, and many many underwater dives where there used to be so many
creatures to see on these dives. Even last year I dove Cocos Island only to hear of a multi
thousand wipe out recently by shark finning of the resident hammerhead sharks. I saw a scant
few sharks on that weeklong trip.

Les Stroud had the opportunity to work alongside the late Rob Stewart who was an award
winning wildlife photographer, filmmaker, conservationist, and educator. Stewart travelled the
globe for four years as a photographer for Canadian Wildlife Federations magazine before the
creation of his first documentary. Stewart is commonly known for his documentary Sharkwater
which he started after discovering illegal long ling fishing was killing sharks within the marine
reserve in the Galapagos Islands. Sharkwater is credited as being important for the shark
conservation movement, changing government policy worldwide, and inspiring the creation of
shark conservation groups. Stewart released another film titled Revolution in 2013 which
elaborates on the evolution of life and the revolution to save it. (sharkwater). Rob Stewart
recently passed away in Alligator Creek in the United States during a deep sea scuba dive. He
was filming a sequel to Sharkwater (variety). The next two questions that were proposed to Les
Stroud are related to Rob Stewart and their work together.

How did Rob Stewart's research correlate with yours?

Rob and I both have the rebellious, activist gene. What we have seen individually has angered
and frustrated us both. Whereas some seek to preserve geographic locations, others seek to chase
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down criminals, others seek to financially support conservation efforts, others seek to
educate.Rob and I had a similar desire to out those still hiding their illegal or repulsive
practices. We were both good on the ground and this is where we met philosophically.

What experiences did you and Rob Stewart have together?

The last one was the most exciting as I found myself undercover filming in an ocean monitoring
station in Cocos Island Costa Rica. I would not have done any of that if Rob had not implored
me to gather Intel while I was there. He was an inspiring individual that soon had you convinced
to be on board with his intentions.
Each of Les Strouds answers encompass an intricate knowledge of the topics discussed.
He was able to share his insight and experiences while backing up his answers with facts and
supporting details. By conducting this interview with a source who has personal experiences with
the global effects of overfishing and illegal fishing practices a different perspective of the topic
was shown. Les Stroud is currently writing his fourth book while continuing to film and travel
the world. Rob Stewarts sequel to Sharkwater is set to be released in 2017.
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Role of Control

There are many forms of control within the topic of misconduct of international ocean
laws, specifically the fishing practices. These forms of control differ from each other as they all
have different approaches to the situation and motives about it. The varying roles of control
belong to the governmental systems in the world, individuals who protest or speak to spread
awareness about this issue, and the Black Market that relates to this issue and exists in some
countries. The control over the laws that the misconduct of international ocean treaties, and the
fishing practices is occurring remains in the governmental systems as they ultimately hold the
power in decision making relating to issues such as this one. This should only occur however if
these current systems begin to deploy proper enforcement of the laws and treaties that are in
place. The individuals and groups who are protesting these issues care deeply about this problem
and attempt to share their knowledge on it to change the current implemented systems. The
Black Market that currently exists in some regions holds corruption and the use of many illegal
practices.

The governments who introduce laws pertaining to fishing practices are attempting to
gain control over this situation. The majority of these laws are known of, however are not
followed or strongly implemented. Laws that relate to specific regions or countries and ones that
relate to international waters are not followed by all fisheries and fishermen (un). There are
governmental organizations to put laws in place however no organizations to strictly enforce
these rules on land and on sea. Many laws are also not able to come to terms as government
systems are unable to meet consensuses

The General Assembly has played an increasing role in recent years in oceans
governance. In 2006, an ad hoc open-ended informal working group on marine
biological diversity discussed threats to marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction
and the Open-ended Informal Consultative Process on Oceans and the Law of the Sea
(ICP) discussed implementing the ecosystems approach. The General Assembly passed
the 2006 oceans resolution and fisheries resolution. In July, the Informal Consultative
Process failed to reach consensus on the relevant legal regime for marine genetic
resources in areas beyond national jurisdiction. (globelaw)
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Having no agreements reached within the government concerning topics of this seriousness to
ecosystems is not beneficial to the world and the oceans. Without a stern governmental system in
place the misconduct of the current ocean treaties and the misuse of fishing practices will
continue to occur and possibly increase in commonality.

Protests are conducted to attempt to gain awareness of this topic. This puts the public and
activists in control of increasing awareness about the issues that are occurring because of the
misconduct of fishing practices and the enforcement of laws relating to the oceans. Many films,
documentaries, and organizations have been created to attempt to combat the misconduct of
fishing practices. Documentaries such as Sharkwater or the week long television program Shark
Week are utilized to spark the interest of people and to share knowledge on the topic to allow
others to realize the significance and seriousness of this issue. Doing so using television will
interest a greater population in the current media based world. Organizations such as the
Canadian Wildlife Federation, Environmental Defense Fund, Greenpeace Canada, Sea Shepherd
Conservation Society, and World Wildlife Fund have been created to work towards more
sustainable oceans. Some organizations use themselves as a basis to communicate this issue
around the globe. Organizations such as Sea Shepherd Conservation Society use their power to
go out on the sea and attempt to prevent the misconduct of fishing practices themselves
(Sharkwater). Through protest groups and organizations the issue of the misconduct of
international ocean treaties and fishing practices is becoming more known. These acts could lead
to more sustainable oceans and less misconduct upon them.

In some countries where seafood is a main commodity that is bringing in a large source
of income, a Black Market is likely to be present. This is a major resource of the illegal
importation of seafood into more developed countries. In Asia, where there is a large industry for
shark fins, using practices that are illegal in some countries in the world. As outlined by Science
News

The key ingredient of shark-fin soup is cartilage, which after hours of simmering, takes
on the appearance and texture of cellophane noodles. Fleets harvest fins at sea by
catching almost any variety of shark, slicing off all the animal's fins, and throwing the
then-helpless fish back into the water. This brutal practice, outlawed in U.S. waters is not
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regulated on the high seas or in most nations' territorial waters. Fins can command $200 a
pound in Asian markets, whereas shark meat yields fishing fleets no more than one
percent as much revenue per pound. (sciencenews)

With a high demand for product in Asian countries fisheries have taken to illegal practices to
increase their revenue and product gathering levels. As seen in the 2006 film Sharkwater when
members aboard the Sea Shepherd Conservation Societys ship attempted to prevent this illegal
practice from occurring in the waters of Costa Rica were almost arrested

When we arrived in Costa Rica, the Ocean Warrior was charged with seven counts of
attempted murder for the altercation with the Varadero, despite the fact that the President
of the country invited us there, notes Stewart. Everyone else involved was wondering
why the whole judicial system was attacking us, and ignoring the illegal fishing boat.
While on shore, we had a chance to find out more about the shark finning operations.
Stewart learned that although shark finning is illegal in Costa Rica, Costa Rican fins were
showing up all over Asia. Extensive research uncovered a connection between the
Taiwanese mafia and the shark fin supply. With the help of an insider, Stewart went
undercover to investigate the shark fishing industry in Costa Rica, finding out that illegal
shark finning was rampant along Costa Rican coasts. (sharkwater)

The prominence of the Black Market in Costa Rica is outlined through this example. The
example displays this when the organization that is attempting to help Costa Rica combat the
illegal practice of shark finning is almost arrested. The revenue that was being received by the
members is far too large for them to stop this practice. This is corruption and misconduct of
ocean treaties and fishing practices; the animal being harmed is essentially being wasted.

Therefore, the misconduct of international ocean treaties is under the control of a

countrys government, protesters, and the possible Black Market. The governmental systems put
laws and treaties in place. The protest groups and organizations allow for this issue to be learned
by the population. The Black Market conducts much of the misuse of fishing practices. These
wide varieties of control show that the misconduct of international ocean treaties and misuse of
fishing practices is a complex issue.
 Duprey 21

Religion

In many countries religion is the main focus, and much of what the citizens do in their
daily life revolves around it. Religion plays a minor role in the aspect of misconduct of
international ocean treaties and fishing practices. Some religions affect the choices or diets of
consumers relating to seafood. This could lead to a decline in the consumption rates. In some
countries where the fishing industry is large, religion affects the choices of some of the workers
in these industries. Fishing may be against the morals of people of certain religions. This could
benefit or effect the fishing industries.

In regards to the consumption of food and religion, there are people all over the globe
who choose to eat or avoid certain foods because of their religion. If consumption rates are
higher, companies may begin to misuse their fishing gear to accommodate the need for product.
As many religions do not eat meat and if consumption rates are lower, this affects the economics
of the fishing industry. Religion is a strong principle at which many diets are based.

Religion effects humans morals. This could deter the decisions of workers in fisheries or
in the export industries. Whether this relates to the killing of animals, the working conditions on
humans, or the process of fishing itself. An article explains how Alifereti Tawake, the chief of a
village in Fiji, consults with Fijian communities to guide them in managing their resources
against what the priests of the village say:

Although a devout Christian, Tawake notes that sermons that preach, God will always
provide are not delivering the full message. If not coupled with stewardship, this belief
can have adverse effects, particularly on fisheries in Fiji. Poaching, a massive problem in
managed and protected areas can even be rationalized. Though poaching may be
considered stealing and thus disrespectful in some ways, in Fijian culture poaching is
not always defined as stealing, but sometimes as an entitlement. Poachers can reason that,
we are only using what God blesses us with, explains Tawake. (news.mongabay)

Tawake states that religion is causing problems relating to the maintenance of the fisheries in
Fiji. The poachers who believe that God has blessed them with the amounts of fish that live in
the surrounding waters will overfish and cause short-term and long-term effects. With a mindset
 Duprey 22

such as this, many fisheries under the authority of religious leadership may overfish because they
believe that the fish were put there for their use. This is an example of the misconduct of fishing
practices.

Therefore, religion could affect the misconduct of international ocean treaties and fishing
practices in a positive and a negative way. Many religions do not allow the followers to eat meat.
This could allow for fish populations to restore themselves. This could also allow fishermen
from other countries to illegally fish in other nations waters. Some fisheries believe that God
intended for them to fish and use the resources given to them. This is an unsustainable way to
fish and this practice could lead to serious consequences such as species extinction.
 Duprey 23

Logic of Evil

The logic of evil is used to observe the perspective of another and to decipher why they
are conducting their actions. In the case of the poor enforcement of ocean laws pertaining to
fishing practices, a close look into the corruption of these laws and the motives behind the
misuse of fishing methods will be taken. Many resources state that the misuse of fishing
practices and complications such as overfishing is ruining the environment with no justifiable
reason. To understand the complexity of fishers actions, one must analyze the thought processes
and actions of said fishers.

To many, fishing is a source of income and nourishment. The fishing industry has grown
immensely and continues to grow each year (nereusprogram). This indicates that the fishing
industry is contributing to economies greatly. In a world consumed by money and economy
strength, there is logic behind the misconduct of fishing practices and ocean treaties if it allows
one to expand their current economic rates. Also, seafood is largely seen as nourishment and a
food source to countries of all classes. Seafood is an aid used to combat malnutrition in
underprivileged countries

Fish makes a vital contribution to the survival and health of a significant portion of the
world's population. Fish is especially important in the developing world. In some of
Asia's poorest countries (Bangladesh, Cambodia) people derive as much as 75% of their
daily protein from fish. In West Africa fish accounts for 30% of animal protein intake.
(aquafind)

This allows for a conscious reason to why citizens contribute to the issue of overfishing. Many
people rely on seafood products to live. Seafood has been known to be a healthier choice of
protein as it is full of macronutrients such as proteins and fats, and micronutrients such as
vitamins and minerals. In knowing this many are switching their diets where the only meat
products that are eaten are seafood products. This is another factor in the increasing seafood
industry.

In some countries it is believed that the hunting of animals is an effective means of

animal population control. In some ecosystems the carrying capacity has been reached
therefore causing that ecosystem to be off balance. This could affect the food chain and
 Duprey 24

environment. However, many believe that overfishing as a means to control population is

benefitting the community. This approach to controlling wildlife has become increasingly
popular among fishermen and government officials

In order to address some of those problems and restore the nation's ecological health, the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) tentatively embraced hunting as a means to control
problematic animal populations during the late 20th century. In some instances, FWS
officers would cull animals themselves, while in other cases, the job was outsourced to
private hunters. (icof.infobaselearning)

By controlling the animal populations, humans could be killing animals while also ending their
suffering; they could live in overpopulated ecosystems or be on the bottom end of the food chain.

Many companies and fisheries have also stated that fishing is keeping the population safe
from dangerous aquatic animals. In Japan, many believe that the shark finning industry is also
keeping the population safe from the danger of sharks. By keeping certain aquatic animal species
down, the ocean waters become safer for human use.

There is logic behind the misconduct of international ocean treaties and the misuse of
fishing practices. Seafood is a large source of income and nourishment, one must realize the
importance of seafood to human nutrition and its role in reducing poverty and hunger.
Overfishing is believed to keep animal populations under control, and by the killing of certain
aquatic species the oceans are being kept safer for human use.

The politics of this issue is on many different levels. There are governmental systems that
encompass multiple countries, and there are rules and regulations that relate directly to each
country. Organizations have been created who use different media outputs. Also the economy
has benefitted from the fishing industry. Some governmental organizations include the Law of
the Sea Treaty Bodies, National Governmental Agencies; of which twenty five countries
participate in, United Nations System, and other International governmental Organizations. The
main objective of these governmental organizations are to attempt to establish laws of the oceans
and seas (un). There are fifty documented non-governmental organizations whose focuses are to
provide advice, guidance, statistics, and knowledge about the issues concerning the oceans and
 Duprey 25

the misuse that occurs within them. In an article published by the World Bank how the fishing
industry affects the world economy was explained

In 2012, fisheries produced roughly 160 million tons of fish and generated over US$129
billion in exports while securing access to nutrition for billions of people and accounting
for 16 percent of total global animal protein. Coastal areas within 100 km of the ocean
account for an estimated 61 percent of the worlds total Gross National Product (GNP)
and are of particular importance for developing countries. (worldbank)

With an income this large many governments would like to continue fishing at the current rate.
This shows the reasoning for many illegal practices currently being used.
 Duprey 26

Case Study #1 Japan

Japan belongs to the continent of Asia and is an island nation, consisting of 6, 852 islands
(sciencekids). Japan is located with the Pacific Ocean to the West and the Sea of Japan to the
East. The population of Japan is about 127, 000, 000 people, with about 2, 000, 000 of them
being foreign residents (japan-guide). Japan, being a very industrial driven country produces
many gases due to the large number of power plants. These gases cause Japan to occasionally
suffer from acid rain. Tsunamis, typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanoes also pose a threat to
Japan. The countries that are located closest to Japan are Russia, China, and Korea.

Japan is known to be a leader in the shark finning industry. The Japanese consume seven
and a half billion tons of fish per year which is about 10% of the worlds overall catch. This is
equivalent to thirty kilograms a year per person (factsanddetails). 23% of the average Japanese
persons protein intake comes from the ocean, almost 3 times that of the average American
(blogs.scientificamerican). These numbers indicate that a large source of the countrys economic
income is brought in by this industry. However, due to the Fukushima nuclear disaster that
occurred in 2011 many of the fish around Japan are radioactively contaminated and unsafe to
consume. The waters surrounding the islands of Japan and many other countries around the
globe have been heavily overfished. Japans seafood self-sufficiency rate has declined from its
peak of 133% in 1964 to 59% in 2006 (factsanddetails). This means much of Japans seafood is
needed to be imported. This is now becoming a problem for Japan as countries that used to catch
and export large amounts of fish to Japan are now keeping the fish for their own country. This
means Japan has to go to extreme or illegal measures to fish many of the seafood products that
are sold throughout the country.

Japan still has rich fishing grounds within its borders. These are frequently being visited
by unknown vessels who have no documentation or verification that they are allowed to be
fishing in the areas they are. This is contributing to the high levels of concern for overfishing in
Japan. Located in the middle of the Sea of Japan in an area called Yamatotai; this area is located
in Japans exclusive economic zone meaning only Japanese ships are allowed to fish there. In
2016 local Japanese fishermen noticed that on some occasions over 200 unknown ships could be
spotted fishing on a single day (3.nhk.or.jp).
 Duprey 27

Recently, in North Korea, fishermen have been attempting to make up for food shortages
in their country. The military has imposed targets on fishermen and offer rewards to those who
bring home the largest catches. This has forced many fishermen to put their lives on the line and
use destructive fishing practices and equipment in the Sea of Japan. China is also posing a threat
to the Japanese overfishing ordeal. According to a Yoshihiko Yamada who is a professor at
Tokai University, "Chinese boats overfished the East China Sea and are now coming all the
way to Yamatotai and the coast of Hokkaido to poach fish and squid. I'm concerned about the
future of Japan's aquatic resources (3.nhk.or.jp).

Japan is not only feeling the consequences of illegal fishing in their territory due to other
fishermen but the country is contributing to the crisis as well. Overfishing is the major problem
occurring in Japan in relation to the issue of the misconduct of international ocean treaties and
the misuse of common fishing practices. In Japan overfishing in the coastal regions of the
country has depleted catches, causing many villages to shrink or move completely.

Many Asian medicines have poached animals as their main ingredient. In the protected
waters of the Galapagos Islands sea lions are poached for their teeth and genitals, sharks are
caught for their fins, cartilage, teeth, and liver oil, and sea cucumbers are harvested as they are
popular in Japan. These animals are all protected in the Galapagos Marine Reserve mainly
because they are targeted by poachers to the extent that populations of each species has
drastically declined in recent years. Japanese ships are illegally poaching the animals, cutting off
the parts needed for medicine and other delicacies and then the rest of the animals body is
discarded back into sea.

Shark fins are targets for fishermen because they have high monetary and cultural value.
They are used in a popular dish; shark fin soup which is a symbol of status in Asian culture.
Sharks are a protected species in many locations around the world. However, due to the high
value and popularity in Asian markets sharks draw local, national, and international fishermen to
their illegal harvest. In a report released by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization it was
stated that at least 73 million sharks were killed every year, primarily for their fins
(theguardian). Out of this global catch, a majority of it came from Japanese fisheries or ended up
in Japan through the importation and exportation of goods. Japanese fishery agencies reported
 Duprey 28

that Japan caught about 65,000 tons of sharks just over 40 years ago, [] by 2009 that had
almost halved to 35,000 tons (theguardian).

Worried about supplies and high prices, the Japanese government is urging people to eat
more locally-caught fish to reduce Japan's dependence on imported fish and especially
encouraging people to eat seasonal fish whose catches are usually abundant. However the
Japanese government isnt doing all that they can to help combat these issues. The head of Act
for a Fukuoka marine product wholesaler Takuhira Kaneko said we need new policies from the
government to help us protect resources that can even include cutting down on catches
(factsanddetails).

The main factor this issue has brought to Japan is overfishing. More than dozens of
species are in decline in the waters around Japan. As of 2009, 42 of Japans 84 fish stocks were
categorized as low by the countrys Ministry of Fishing, Forestry and Agriculture
(blogs.scientificamerican).

The Japanese government and other organizations have put some laws in place in regard
to how the country is being effected by the misuse of fishing practices and illegal international
fishing. Several years ago, a project named the Mottainai fish project was put in place. This
project is to buy the fish that are typically referred to as bycatch to sell them in product where
some of their taste could be masked such as fish cakes. Mottainai accounted for $20 000 in sales
in recent years meaning that many fishermen stopped throwing dead fish back into the water and
were instead selling them. (factsanddetails). This will help reduce the effects of overfishing.

A conservation manager Jill Hepp from Pews global shark made a statement about Japan
and the environment saying

Sharks play a critical role in the ocean environment, where shark populations are healthy,
marine life thrives. But where they have been overfished, ecosystems fall out of balance.
Shark catching countries must stand by their commitments and act now to conserve and
protect these animals. (traffic)

By releasing this statement Hepp is discussing the issue at hand globally while implying that
countries like Japan need to take action immediately.
 Duprey 29

Case Study #3 The United States

The United States of America is a leading country in the consumption of seafood.

According to a recent report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
Americans increased their seafood consumption by nearly one pound per person in 2015, this
rose the average to fifteen and a half pounds per year being consumed per person (noaa.gov).

Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing does occur within the United States borders
and some is contributed by American fishermen. However, the United States is also a major
contributor in combating the issue and have put many initiatives in place. The United States
imports about 90% of its fish products so the country is not as much directly impacted as they are
majorly indirectly impacted by the consequences brought on by the illegal, unreported, and
unregulated fishing around the world (nmfs.noaa.gov). With the US relying heavily on other
countries for their seafood supply they are contributing with efforts to combat the issue.
Organizations such as NOAA, other US agencies, foreign governments and private sectors are
working in partnership to effectively work towards solutions to illegal, unreported, and
unregulated fishing in the United States.

In June of 2014, at the US State Department Our Ocean conference, the leader of the
United States at the time, President Obama announced that the US would be creating a new
initiative to prevent illegally caught food from reaching US markets (worldwildlife). This was a
turning point for over eighty nations worldwide. With this influence in the market place the US
can influence the global illegal, unregulated, and undocumented fishing challenge by requiring
the entire supply chain is fully traceable to legal sources. This will improve practices around the
globe by those who hope to access the US market (worldwildlife).

The US has led efforts in other developments as well. In 2001 an International Plan of
Action to prevent, Deter, and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing through the
United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) was formed. Later, additional and
more specific agreements were formed

Because enforcement against IUU fishing on the high seas is difficult, and fish must
eventually come to land to enter into commerce, countries have cooperated to develop
common port State measures in their ports to combat IUU fishing. These measures were
 Duprey 30

brought together in the FAO Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and
Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (also known as the Port State
Measures Agreement or PSMA), adopted in 2009. The PSMA is a critical component of
the global fight against IUU fishing and entered into force on June 5, 2016. The PSMA
will have the biggest impact if robust port State measures are globally implemented by all
port States and the United States has advocated for the broad adoption and strong and
effective implementation of the PSMA and for the adoption of the port State measures
identified in RFMOs and other international fora. (state.gov)

The United States has done very well in the fight against illegal international fishing. The
government and intergovernmental organizations are taking lead roles in doing so.
 Duprey 31

Case Study #2 Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands is made up of sixty-one islands in the eastern Pacific Ocean
(nationalgeographic). The Galapagos Islands are constantly changing due to volcanic eruptions
which cause new lava fields to form. The islands are eroding and expanding as well. Covering a
total geographical area of 7880 square kilometers The Galapagos Islands are only located 965
kilometers away from the Ecuadorian coastline (galapagosislands).

The Galapagos Islands cover a large area of land, most of which is a marine reserve. The
Galapagos Marine Reserve is one of the largest and most biologically diverse marine protected
areas (MPAs) in the world. The MPA covers 133, 000 square kilometers of water surrounding
the Galapagos Islands. This marine reserve is home to a wide range of species: whales, sharks,
tropical fishes, sea lions, and rays. There is some agriculture and fishing allowed within the
MPA, but there are strict regulations. The reason being is that tourism is the areas most
important economic activity. With more than 100 000 people visiting the Galapagos Islands
every year, the MPA has to compromise with the tourism industry and economy. This is done to
balance the demands of the tourism industry, the habitats these tourists wish to view, and the
ecosystems themselves (nationalgeographic). Therefore the minimal poaching that is allowed is
controlled by the MPAs strict regulations. According to the Galapagos National Park, more
than 2, 900 marine species have been monitored (nationalgeographic). However, this fact of
constant monitoring does not stop some fishermen.

Poaching or illegal fishing and hunting is a large threat to marine species who live in the
Galapagos Marine Reserve. It is legal to hunt many animals in the MPA, but not all of them.
Industrial-scale fishing has been banned in the waters around Galapagos since 1998 with the
creation of the Galapagos Marine Reserve. However, the local population of fishermen has
permission for an artisanal fishery, a practice that can help to create sustainable local livelihoods
if applied properly (globenewswire). Many other fishermen, however, also fish within these
waters. Animals such as sea turtles, sea cucumbers, and sharks are often illegally hunted in these
waters. Another issues is that many poachers overfish and harvest more than the MPA allows. A
common fishing practice that is a main contributor to overfishing is longlining. Longlining has
been banned inside the Galapagos Marine Reserve. Despite being illegal within the MPA this
 Duprey 32

practice is popular in the Galapagos Islands and mainly targets sharks, tuna, and marlin
(galapagos).

The Galapagos Marine Reserve is rich in animals. Inside this MPA are aquatic animals
that are popular and wanted on the markets all over the world. With recent news stating that the
Galapagos Marine Reservoir has the highest populations of sharks globally, this raises the risk of
illegal fishing in the MPA. Many sections of the ocean have been heavily overfished and the
results of bycatch are evident. Another issue is fishing practices that are illegal inside the reserve
being used. Also, many poachers and fishermen will fish inside the MPA without following the
rules and regulations. Due to these reasons, fishermen fish inside the waters of this MPA. Some
of the rules that have been put in place are: fish that are tagged which are sharks and rays cannot
be targeted, extracted fish cannot be sold commercially, and annual renewal of all licenses and
permits must occur to subject good standing with the regulations (galeodan).

The fish caught in these areas being commercially sold is one of the largest influences for
the illegal fishing. Ships from many other countries fish in these waters as they are abundant in
species such as shark and tuna. These ships come from areas that have been overfished and
whose ecosystems are losing the battle against destructive fishing practices. With the seafood
industry booming around the world there is a high demand for product. This is the motive behind
many of these fishermens actions.

This has a large impact on the society who inhabits the Galapagos Islands. A large
majority of the impacts the misconduct of international ocean treaties and misuse of fishing
practices have on the Galapagos Islands and its MPA are negative. Due to the rules that were
implemented in the early 1990s that banned some fishing from the islands many fishermen
rebelled. An example would be from April of 2004, angry fishermen besieged the Charles
Darwin Research Station and demanded the right to use bigger nets and longer lines. The seizure
ended with an agreement signed by Csar Narvez, the then minister of education in Ecuador,
and the artisanal fishermen (igtoa). By signing the agreement Narvez changed the ban on
fishing of certain animals in the MPA to a quota. This change of the ban loosened the laws in
place on illegal fishing. Thus, more fishermen began to cross into the Galapagos Marine
Reserve. These fishermen, modern travelers, and poachers have all impacted the environment
 Duprey 33

and ecosystems within the Galapagos Islands. This is taking away from the fish populations that
residents of the islands are given permission to fish regularly within certain regulations.

Tourism is a large industry in Galapagos Islands and is a large factor in the misuse of
fishing practices. The tourism industry is ruining habitats that tourists visit the islands to view.
The Galapagos National Park Service has implemented official visitor sites and has set limits on
the amount of visitors allowed to enter the Galapagos Islands along with how many visitors are
allowed in each area (galapagosislandsbh). These laws are enforced by the authorities of the
Galapagos National Park Service and that of the Ecuadorian Navy. However, according to the
book Corruption, Natural Resources and Development that was edited by Aled Williams, and
Philippe Le Billon corruption within the Ecuadorian Naval Command therefore undermined the
laws that govern the Galapagos Marine Reserve, a World Heritage Site. (books.google). Even
with the knowledge of the effects tourism and the poor enforcement of the laws and regulations
is having on the oceans surrounding the islands, the large economic growth that arises from it is
too large for the Galapagos Islands government to want to make a drastic change. The change
needed would benefit the ecosystems at the expense of decreasing the economy.

Along with having regulations in place the reserve also monitors animals and vessels to
attempt to put an end to the illegal fishing within the MPA. As of 2007, The Galapagos National
Park, the Ecuadoran Navy, and the Marine Control and Surveillance Unit had three ocean going
vessels for long range operations, two medium range vessels, and a number of smaller speed
boats. These vessels along with an air unit and a new satellite vessel monitoring system has
significantly increased the number of illegal fishing vessels that are captured within the
Galapagos Marine Reserve. The Galapagos National Park has also strengthened its legal team in
order to better prosecute those found misusing fishing practices in the Galapagos Marine Reserve
(galapagos). Many of the animals that are monitored within the reserve are sharks. In January of
2014 the Charles Darwin foundation, OCEARCH, and the Galapagos National Park Directorate
tagged sharks with satellite transmitters (globenewswirel). The goal of this experiment was to
understand how marine reserves, with restrictions of fishing, are still being affected by poachers
and fishermen.
 Duprey 34

During the filming of the documentary Sharkwater, Rob Stewart and the crew aboard the
vessel owned by the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society were invited by the Galapagos National
Park to help protect the marine reserve from illegal fishing. Sea Shepherd is an international non-
profit, marine wildlife conservation organization. While in the Galapagos, the film crew saw the
true devastation of the illegal fishing that is occurring in the protected waters. This is an example
of how the Galapagos National Park is attempting to combat the issue using a larger scale than
themselves.

The government of Ecuador has played a large role in protecting the Galapagos Islands.
In 1959, the Galapagos National Park was created and in 1988, many organizations and
governmental agencies produced the Special Law for the Galapagos. The Special Law is a
legislation passed by the Ecuadorian government that covers a wide range of topics
(web.mit.edu). One topic in the Special Law is fisheries. With the islands being managed at the
political level, there have been lapses in the enforcement of laws and regulations, as well as in
proper planning (igtoa). The Special Law and other regulations that have been put in place by
organizations, the Galapagos National Park, the Ecuadorian Navy and government, and the
Galapagos Marine Reservoir were created to fight against the illegal and undocumented fishing
that is occurring using destructive fishing practices within the protected ocean waters of the
Galapagos Islands.
 Duprey 35

Canadian Connection

The effects of the misuse of fishing practices and the misconduct of international ocean
treaties can be felt on a global scale. These acts are displayed in many countries around the
world, Canada being one of them. Even though Canada is contributing to the issue they are also a
main contributor to the campaigns and solutions that are being created against the issue.

In Canada there are few laws pertaining to the fishing practices used within the countrys
borders. Fisheries and Oceans Canada is responsible for providing a list of acts, a list of
regulations, administrative burden baselines, a forward regulatory plan, service standards for
regulatory authorizations, an interpretation policy, and frequently asked questions (dfo-mpo).
Fisheries and Oceans Canada has many individual acts that are directed at specific areas or
administrative positions. Some include the oceans act, fisheries development act, department of
fisheries and oceans act, coastal fisheries protection act, and the freshwater fish marketing act
(dfo-mpo). Under many of these acts it is stated that there are certain zones within different
areas of Canada that are allowed to be fished in.

Canada participated in a 2014 Global Fisheries Enforcement Workshop that was hosted
by the International Monitoring, Control and Surveillance Network in San Jose, Costa Rica.
There, illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing was the main topic of discussion. This type of
fishing takes a significant toll on ecosystems and robs billions of dollars from the global
economy (dfo-mpo). At this workshop many countries turned to Canada for additional guidance
on how to take a more responsible approach to combating this issue. They did so because Canada
is largely recognized as a leader in the field of fighting against these highly destructive and
illegal practices.

At the 1992 Convention for the Conservation of Anadromous Stocks in the North Pacific
Ocean, the International Convention for the High Seas Fisheries of the North Pacific and created
the North Pacific Anadromous Fish Commission (NPAFC). The members of the NPAFC are:
Canada, Japan, the Russian Federation, the United States, and the Republic of Korea. The
Peoples Republic of China is a non-member supporter of the NPAFC. Member nations of
the NPAFC work to detect and apprehend vessels involved in illegal, unreported and unregulated
 Duprey 36

fishing in the North Pacific (forces). In 1993 Canada launched operation DRIFTNET was
created.

Canadas contribution to the NPAFC is operation DRIFTNET. Driftnet fishing is a

technique that uses large panels of netting that typically range from ten to fifteen meters wide
and can reach up to twenty kilometers long. These nets are fitted with floats and weights so that
they are able to hang in the water to capture fish and other wildlife. This technique is not
ecofriendly as more often than not non-target species and unmarketable fish get caught in the
nets to become classified as bycatch. Once the bycatch is discovered in the nets, the fishermen
dump the dead animals back into the ocean. Operation DRIFTNET consists of more than four
million square kilometers of the North Pacific Ocean being monitored each year for illegal
activity by a vessel. Operation DRIFTNET patrols often deter what could be illegal fishing
activity just by their presence. The success of Operation DRIFTNET has saved the lives of an
estimated 100,000 sharks and an equal number of animals from other species (parley).

In a video discussing Canada monitoring the high seas, Blair Thexton the Intelligence
Supervisor of Fisheries and Oceans Canada explained;

So, the implications of Canada not conducting these efforts to deter illegal, unregulated
and unreported fishing are significant. Let's face it, we're dealing with a black market
industry so it's very difficult for us to put our finger on exactly the impact this is having
on not only the environment, the ecosystem itself, as well as the economic impact to the
countries that are involved. Some experts have estimated that up to 11 million all the way
up to 23 million tons of illegal product are being illegally harvested every year, and that's
over and above the legitimate fisheries that are occurring. So, we can translate that to the
billions. So that can be 10 to 25 billion dollars of global revenue that's lost, due simply
because of this illegal activity that's occurring. So, I don't think Canada can afford not to
conduct these collaborative efforts. (dfo-mpo)

In this video, a narrator and Thexton discussed how Canada works with its international partners
to monitor the high seas and deters illegal, unregulated, unreported activities that harm the
oceans resources and ecosystems.
 Duprey 37

Canadian organizations such as Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (SSCS) work to end
the destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the worlds oceans in order to conserve and
protect ecosystems and species (seashepherd). SSCS uses direct-action methods to investigate
document, expose, and confront illegal activities on the high seas. This organization has done
many campaigns relating to the issue of illegal fishing and the misuse of fishing practices. Some
include the prevention of shark poaching in the Galapagos Islands, action against Japanese
whalers, and even work shutting down entire illegal drifting fleets with operation DRIFTNET. In
February of 2016, SSCS started to gather information about Chinese Fu Yuan Yu fleet, SSCS
documented evidence of their illegal activity so that they would be able to disrupt their
operations and confiscate their illegal driftnets. Due to the SSCS, the Chinese government has
temporarily suspended the fishing licenses of all of the vessels owned by the company that ran
the Fu Yuan Yu fleet (seashepherd). Canadian organizations have had an impact on the world in
relation to preventing illegal fishing and the use of destructive fishing practices.

Canada does well as world leader for combating illegal fishing and the misuse of fishing
practices, however, it is occurring within the country as well. In Canada, there are fishing
practices being misused and laws relating to ocean treaties being ignored. In Canadas East Coast
fishing is a very large industry. Within this industry many fishing practices are being misused. In
Halifax overfishing is an issue. New studies suggest that overexploited fish populations such as
cod may never be able to restore their population to what it once was. During the study that
collected the information to come to this conclusion, Jeff Hutchings, a professor of biology at
Dalhousie University stated but when you dont take action rapidly not only does it result in
a much longer potential recovery time, but the uncertainty as to whether recovery will happen at
all increases exponentially (huffingtonpost). This statement and findings reflect the disturbance
that has affected the ecosystems on Canadas East Coast.

Due to advancements in fishing technologies in the 1950s and 1960s, the province of
Newfoundland in Canada emptied its waters of cod. Fishermen began to use destructive fishing
methods such as bottom trawling. However, these giant trawlers came from other countries who
took endless amounts of fish from these Canadian waters. This led to the collapse of the
Newfoundland Grand Banks cod fishery in 1992 putting 40 000 people out of work, causing
them to leave the province to find work somewhere else. (greenpeace). After the years of
 Duprey 38

overfishing and poor management of fisheries there, the environmental, social, and economic
damage that occurred are still affecting the province today. The effects of the misuse of fishing
practices and other international companies causing overfishing reflects the need for laws that
are strongly enforced.

Within Canada, some effects of the misuse of fishing practices are beginning to show
themselves. Some may include, fish populations at all-time lows with no signs of returning to
what they once were because of overfishing. Or ecosystems that have been thrown off of their
natural balance also due to overfishing in Canadas East Coast. With Canada being a leader in
the world for combating illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing it is a surprise the Canadian
government and the Fishers and Oceans of Canada are unable to control the problem inside of
their own country. The Canadian government must begin to focus on its own country and
properly implement and enforce rules that will benefit the waters around the countrys borders.
 Duprey 39

Role of International Organizations

International organizations hold a large responsibility in that they play a vital role in
combating global and social issues. International organizations fall into one of three categories:
non-governmental organizations (NGO), intergovernmental organizations (IGO), and
multinational enterprises (uia). A NGO is an organization that is separate from the state and from
intergovernmental organizations. NGOs are non-profit, are usually funded by donations and are
typically run by volunteers. IGOs are organizations run by the state. It is important to note that
in order to be classified as an IGO the organization must be based on a formal instrument of
agreement between the governments of nation states, must include three or more nation states as
parties to the agreement, and must process a permanent secretariat performing ongoing tasks
(uia). Since IGOs are an entity created by a treaty they must also be distinguished from treaties.
A treaty is an agreement between nations that formulates an organization (law.berkeley). A
multinational corporation is a corporate organization that owns or controls the production of
goods and or services in one or more countries other than the country the corporation was
founded in.

The purpose of international organizations is to serve many diverse functions. Some of

these include: collecting information and monitoring trends, delivering services and aid,
providing forums and bartering, and settling disputes (britannica). Through these actions
international organizations hope to better the current situations of nations around the globe.
Using their resources and skills they are able work towards combating the issue at hand.

The NGO World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) is one of the worlds largest conservation
organizations. WWF has offices run at local levels in sixty-nine countries. This organization is
an independent foundation that was registered under Swiss law on April 29th, 1961 (wwf.panda).
WWF has many segments such as an international portion and individual portions for each
country involved in the organization. WWF international is the secretariat for WWFs global
organization. The role of the secretariat is to lead and correlate each of the WWF offices around
the world. This is done through developing policies and priorities, fostering global partnerships,
coordinating international campaigns, and providing supportive measures (wwf.panda). WWFs
offices conduct conservation work using a variety of mediums. Some include: practical field
 Duprey 40

projects, scientific research, advising local and national governments on environmental policy,
and raising awareness of environmental issues. During the fifty years the WWF has been in place
the organization has invested around $11.5 billion USD into more than 13 000 projects
(wwf.panda).

In the many projects WWF has invested in the organization has experienced many
successes and failures. Each of these projects consists of resources and plans to create possible
solutions to combating the issues they are presented with. WWF has six global goals:

We want to ensure that the worlds most important fisheries and ocean ecosystems are
productive and resilient and improve livelihoods and biodiversity; the most iconic and
endangered species are secured and recovering in the wild; the integrity of our most
important forests, including their benefits to human well-being, is enhanced and
maintained; freshwater ecosystems and flow regimes provide water for people and
nature; a global shift toward a low carbon and climate resilient future is achieved; and
that sustainable food systems conserve nature and maintain food security. (wwf.panda)

These are in the process of being achieved using the partnerships and resources the WWF has
created. Using these, the organization is able to succeed in their goals and work towards the
solutions they hope to attain. Out of these six global goals, two of them can be related to the
issue of the misconduct of international ocean treaties and the misuse of fishing practices. They
are the goals to ensure that the worlds fisheries and ocean ecosystems are productive, and that
iconic and endangered species are secured and recovering in the wild. By ensuring that fisheries
and ocean systems are being productive, the illegal fishing and acts that are regularly being
conducted must end. These illegal acts allow for fisheries to mass produce products at the
expense of a balance in aquatic ecosystems. By overfishing and the misuse of fishing practices
such as long line fishing many species are becoming endangered. This mainly occurs through
bycatch. WWF is combating this issue through their global goals.

This organization has dedicated an immense amount of research into the oceans and seas
and even into more specific categories such as: unsustainable fishing, poor fisheries
management, destructive fishing practices, and fisheries partnership agreements. Along with
researching the issues, WWF has also invested into solutions such as smart fishing (wwf.panda).
 Duprey 41

WWF believes that the main causes of why the oceans are being stripped is because of massive
overfishing and needless slaughter. Which is occurring because of pirate fishers, bycatch,
subsides, poor fisheries management, and destructive fishing practices. Due to these statistics,
initiatives such as smart fishing were put in place by WWF. Smart fishing was introduced in
2010 to transform overfishing. From 2010 2016 this program was able to succeed in reaching
ten conservation achievements which each hold achievements within them. Some include: the
EU Common Fisheries Policy reform agreement now includes sustainable catch limits and a
discard ban, Russia passing a legislation to ban harmful driftnets used by domestic and Japanese
fishermen to catch sockeye salmon, the Chilean government decided in 2015 to exempt 117
seamounts from bottom trawling operations, the area covered by the bottom trawl ban is 68,065
km2 of the Chilean Exclusive Economic Zone, MSC certified Fiji skipjack tuna fishery
committed to 100% transparent fishing and installed our satellite tracking tool; they also stopped
fishing in any coral protection areas (awsassets.panda). Due to these achievements, many
improvements have been seen. WWF is continuing with this program and has set new goals to
achieve by 2020. WWFs 2020 smart fishing goals are focused on sustainably managed fisheries,
specifically for the priority of fish populations of tuna and whitefish. This means that the fish are
managed and traded sustainably. WWF has estimated that the seafood market is expected to
grow another fifty tons by 2025 (wwf.panda), meaning it is essential to begin smart fishing and
to stop misusing fishing practices.

Greenpeace is an independent campaigning organization and does not accept donations

from governments or corporations to maintain its independence. Instead, Greenpeace relies on
contributions from individual supporters and foundations grants (greenpeace). Greenpeace has an
international organization and other segments more specific to countries around the world. This
organization was created in 1971 and works towards solutions, making changes, victories, and
bearing witness while catalyzing an energy revolution, defending the worlds oceans, protecting
the worlds ancient forests, working for disarmament and peace, creating a toxic free future, and
campaigning for sustainable agriculture. Greenpeace focuses on the topics of protecting
biodiversity in all its forms, preventing pollution and abuse of the earth's ocean, land, air and
fresh water, ending all nuclear threats, and promoting peace, global disarmament and non-
violence. Greenpeace does so using non-violent, creative confrontation to expose global
 Duprey 42

environmental problems. This is also done to force the solutions upon the issue which
Greenpeace believes is essential (greenpeace).

Greenpeace has been fortunate in the many victories they have achieved while combating
the misuse of fishing practices and the misconduct of international ocean treaties. Greenpeace is
proud to share their many accomplishments they have reached after years of campaigning such
as: in October of 2016 when the worlds largest marine protected area was established off of
Antarctica, the Ascensions islands becoming a marine reserve in January of 2016, Hong Kong
addressing illegal totoaba trade in November of 2015, Taiwan facing an EU sanction on their
fisheries in October of 2015, and perhaps one of their biggest accomplishments occurring in
January of 2015 when an international agreement to form a treaty to protect marine biodiversity
in ocean areas extending beyond territorial was created (greenpeace). The organization stated
that as a result of their many victories companies have reconsidered, governments have moved
and the environment has benefited (http://www.greenpeace). The organizations success
translates into solutions that have greatly aided the worlds ecosystems and the issue of the
misconduct of international ocean treaties.

Greenpeace uses their influence and voice to inform many about the issues the worlds
oceans are experiencing. Greenpeace goes on many expeditions and are often accompanied by
other environmental organizations, fisheries enforcement officials, scientists, celebrities,
government officials and fishermen. This organization informs the public about different reasons
and gives specific examples about how the worlds oceans and the life within them are being
harmed through different means of media. Perhaps some of the most powerful ones relate to
bycatch, overfishing, whaling, and tuna populations. In the informational videos and pages
Greenpeace illustrates the issues at hand and gives examples of each issue and why they are
significant. These strategies will cause website visitors to understand the issues better and to
want to help combat them. Many petitions have also been created by Greenpeace, the
organization encourages many to sign their petitions, campaign, and volunteer to help combat the
issues they stand against. The organization also offers tips on how to help defend the oceans. By
giving the general public tips the organization is making them more aware of the issues the
oceans are facing and ways on how to help with fighting the issues. Each tip indirectly relates to
 Duprey 43

the issue of the misconduct of international ocean treaties and the misuse of fishing practices,
such as:

Make changes in your life that can help fight climate change. Know what you are eating
and make sure that it is sustainable seafood- Get informed and ask questions if your
school, workplace, shops or restaurant doesnt know where the fish it is providing comes
from, refuse it. Get out there and enjoy it! Be an ocean-friendly consumer. Don't just
think about the fish you are eating, think about corals, shells and ocean life. Dont buy
into oceans destruction in souvenir stalls or jewelry shops. The majority of the planet
lives within 100km of the ocean. Learn to swim, sail, dive or just paddle at the edge.
Even a beach walk on a winters day will inspire you. (greenpeace)

These tips indirectly relate to the misconduct of ocean treaties and fishing practices because
when the oceans ecosystems are taken care of they would be able to better regulate themselves,
and this would reduce the effects from overfishing and bycatch.

Oceana is a NGO that was formed in 2001 by a group of leading foundations: The Pew
Charitable Trusts, Oak Foundation, Marisla Foundation, and the Rockefeller Brothers Fund
(oceana). This organization was created to exclusively focus on protecting and restoring oceans
on a global scale. The organization does so by being dedicated to achieving measurable change
by conducting specific, science-based campaigns with fixed deadlines and articulated goals
(oceana). Oceana has an international organization and portions relating to the specific locations:
The United States, Europe, Chile, Canada, Belize, Philippines, Brazil, and Peru. Oceanas
campaigns focus on bycatch, ocean pollution, seafood fraud, marine wildlife, and responsible
fishing.

Having goals and deadlines set has allowed Oceana to achieve over 100 victories and to
protect over 260 square kilometers of ocean. Their many on the water expeditions have resulted
in many of the campaign victories. On the expeditions, Oceana is able to photograph, film, and
research marine ecosystems and bring the visuals to policymakers and the public. Doing so gives
a real life aspect which allows for a better understanding of the issues at hand. This enables
Oceana to win many policy victories (hoceana). Some of Oceanas victories that benefit the issue
 Duprey 44

of the misconduct of international ocean treaties and the use of destructive fishing practices are:
Peru banning landings of shark fins, new critical marine conservation measure for sharks and sea
turtles in Brazil, 1 400 square kilometers in the Balearic Islands becoming protected from
destructive fishing, and when deep-sea trawling bans resulted in the protection of 4.9 million
square kilometers in European Oceans. The success of Oceana is benefitting the oceans and
helping the movement towards making the oceans as rich, healthy, and abundant as they once
were.

The campaigns relating to bycatch, responsible fishing, and marine wildlife directly relate
to overfishing, destructive fishing practices, and illegal international fishing. Oceana provides
background and facts about each issue along with how they are working towards combating them

Oceana campaigns to protect marine creatures whose futures are at risk from
irresponsible fishing, including sharks, turtles and marine mammals. Many populations
are in decline because they are caught as bycatch, and because overfishing and
destructive fishing decimates their food sources and habitat. The disappearance of
keystone and ecologically important species, like sharks, can impact health and future
viability of marine ecosystems. (oceana)

Oceana uses their platform to inform the public and policymakers of the issues and their
solutions. Some solutions the organization has put in place to help combat these issues are a
lawsuit filed to protected steller sea lions, documenting biodiversity around the canary islands,
and a five step program to help protect the oceans. The organization often relates the issues to
how it affects human life, this is to appeal to the policymakers and others who donate. These
steps are aiding the progression to the fight against the misconduct of international laws relating
to the oceans and fishing practices.

The three NGOs, WWF, Greenpeace, and Oceana all work towards combating the
misuse of fishing practices and violation of laws in the oceans. Through their use of media,
campaigning, petitions, and expeditions all the organizations have been very successful in terms
of their solutions. Each organization is continuing to help in working towards bettering the issues
the oceans are facing.
 Duprey 45

Solutions

The misuse of fishing practices and the misconduct of international ocean treaties affects
over 33% of aquatic species caught worldwide (hworldoceanreview). This issue also affects an
estimated worldwide population of 520 million people who rely on fishing and fishing related
activities, and 2.6 billion people who depend on fish as an important part of their diet
(worldwildlife). With this much of the worlds populations being either directly or indirectly
impacted by this issue, many would consider it a top priority to work towards bettering. There
have been laws and regulations put in place however they do not achieve much success.
Governments, consumers, and fisheries need to begin working together to create and work
towards solutions. If this is not done there will only be consequences and a change for the better
or even a reverse in the preexisting damage of the worlds oceans will not be seen in the near
future.

Many governments believe that their work pertaining to this issue is done because they
have implemented regulations or laws. However, this is only the beginning when it comes to the
responsibility of the government. In order to combat the issue of the misconduct of international
ocean treaties and the illegal or misuse of destructive fishing practices around the world the
government must enforce the laws and regulations that are in place.

During the International 2013 Managing Our Nations Fisheries Conference in

Washington, D.C., it was found that the amount of illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing is
a larger number than officials realized. The officials determined that the main culprit is weak
enforcement; that there is both a lack of government oversight and insufficient regulation.
During the conference, the example of lack of enforcement was noted: vessels that have been
blacklisted for illegal fishing activities by international organizations are only intercepted at port
25% of the time (triplepundit). One issue with that statement is that the illegal vessels are
determined by organizations, when governments have more power over law enforcement and
regulation creation. During this conference it was reported that in order to help the issue some
new steps will be needed to be taken,

Centralized data and surveillance systems, online documents and advance notification of
landings to allow inspectors to verify the catch. The report recommends that full
 Duprey 46

traceability measures be implemented, plus global information systems need to be created

and authorities need to cooperate with each other. (triplepundit)

This shows that government officials are aware of the process that need to occur in order to
prevent the use of destructive fishing practices and the misconduct of ocean laws. Now, the
governments need to use their knowledge of what needs to be done and actually create and
enforce the systems and laws needed.

Governments are doing themselves a disservice when not creating more serious
regulations or doing more to enforce the preexisting laws. If the worlds oceans were properly
taken care of there would be no scare to species possibly going extinct, for ecosystems being put
off balance, and for humans to ultimately be affected as well.

There have been many organizations and foundations created to help save the oceans.
Another key role in ending the misconduct of international ocean treaties and use of destructive
fishing practices is informing the general public about the issue. When portions of the population
are informed about an issue they often wish to take action and feel inspired. Many organizations
who put videos and informational pages together also create petitions. These petitions are an
easy way for the public to get involved with combating the issue.

The issue of the misuse of fishing practices and illegal international fishing has many
different aspects to it. It destroys ecosystems, violates laws, and meaninglessly kills large
populations of aquatic animals. Therefore, the use of these fishing methods and illegal
unregulated and unreported fishing should not continue in the future. However, at this point in
time no lasting solutions have been put in place. The current regulations are not being properly
enforced and marine protected areas still allow fishing and have high cases of illegal fishing
inside the reserves. Whether this is due to lack of realization of the severity of the issue, because
the seafood industry is a large percentage of some countrys economies, or because organizations
and government officials are unwilling to provide their concentrated resources to creating
definite solutions to combat the issue, something more needs to be done.

Oceans cover 71% of the planet and make up 95% of all the space available to life on
Earth (worldwildlife). The oceans ecosystems produce 70% of the worlds oxygen, absorb heat
and re-distribute it around the world, and they also dominate the worlds weather systems. If
 Duprey 47

there is no change to stop the misuse of fishing practices and illegal international fishing, all the
species on Earth will have to adapt to life without these necessities.
 Duprey 48

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