A question of identity: Should ‘aboriginal’ still define subsistence whaling?

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 …

A milestone for indigenous rights at the IWC: Consensus on subsistence whaling

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 …

Preliminary discussions at IWC69 highlight key debates on whaling and indigenous rights

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 …

Contract awarded: Sellheim Environmental to carry out survey on indigenous and human rights instruments for the IWC

Contract awarded: Sellheim Environmental to carry out survey on indigenous and human rights instruments for the IWC Dr Nikolas Sellheim and his colleague Jessica Lefevre (United States) have been awarded a contract to carry out a survey on indigenous and human rights instruments by the International Whaling Commission (IWC). The project aims to improve the …