Rethinking the future of sustainable whaling - Antigua & Barbuda's tabled proposal A draft resolution submitted by Antigua & Barbuda at the plenary introduces a significant challenge to the longstanding commercial whaling moratorium established in 1982. Co-sponsored by St. Lucia, the resolution advocates for the development of a conservation and management programme aimed at lifting …
A question of identity: Should ‘aboriginal’ still define subsistence whaling? The words we use carry significant weight. They shape perceptions, define identities, and influence policies. In international conservation discussions, particularly at forums like the International Whaling Commission (IWC), terminology is more than a matter of semantics—it reflects historical recognition, cultural respect, and political meaning. One …
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A milestone for indigenous rights at the IWC: Consensus on subsistence whaling The Aboriginal Subsistence Whaling (ASW) Sub-Committee at IWC69 presented its report that underscored the importance of managing whale populations in a way that balances cultural traditions and the sustainable use of whale stocks by indigenous communities. The discussions reaffirmed the IWC's commitment to …
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The Conservation Committee’s work is praised, but discussions moved to future agenda item The Conservation Committee’s report delivered an overview of its achievements in cetacean conservation. The Committee’s ongoing work on bycatch mitigation, vessel strikes, and whale watching, as well as its alignment with broader international environmental frameworks, drew praise from several delegations. One of …
The Scientific Committee's achievements and challenges The report of the Scientific Committee (SC) at IWC69 showcases a year of significant achievements in cetacean research, further cementing its role as the primary body for whale and cetacean science within the International Whaling Commission (IWC). Despite financial pressures and budget cuts, the SC has continued its vital …
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The Executive Secretary’s report is a testament to the Secretariat’s efficiency As IWC69 progresses, the Executive Secretary’s Report on Secretariat activities became a key focus during the Plenary session. This comprehensive report, summarising the Secretariat’s work between IWC68 in 2022 and the present meeting, was met with widespread appreciation from Commission members. It has now …
Quorum quarrels: While efforts were made to change the rules, they still remain in place The contentious issue of quorum, first ignited during the heated discussions surrounding the South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary at IWC68, resurfaced at IWC69, sparking another round of debate within the Plenary. Despite the efforts of the Working Group on Operational Effectiveness …
IWC69 opens with discussions over visa delays and voting rights The first session of IWC69 commenced this morning, and what was meant to be a smooth start was overshadowed by frustrations over visa delays and financial arrears, impacting both attendance and voting rights. Out of the 88 members of the Commission, 65 are registered members …
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Preliminary discussions at IWC69 highlight key debates on whaling and indigenous rights The 69th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC69) has begun in Lima, Peru, with early sessions focusing on Aboriginal Subsistence Whaling (ASW) ahead of tomorrow’s much-anticipated Plenary. These preliminary discussions have already surfaced important debates about the future of whaling quotas, indigenous …
The new issue of The Conservation & Livelihoods Digest is out! We are happy to announce that the September 2024 issue of The Conservation & Livelihoods Digest is now available! This edition promises to keep you engaged with a dynamic blend of cutting-edge articles, thoughtful opinions, and insightful views, all exploring the intersection of conservation, technology, and …
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