By Pita Ligaiula in Manila, Philippines
The head of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) has issued a cautionary message about the urgent challenges facing fisheries governance globally, emphasizing that the resolutions formulated during this week’s session in Manila must address the magnitude of these issues. In a media briefing at WCPFC22 on Monday, Executive Director Dr. Rhea Moss-Christian presented a sobering overview of the Pacific fisheries landscape as it grapples with climate change, deep-sea mining, and the increasing complexity of global ocean negotiations.
Dr. Moss-Christian highlighted the unprecedented levels of activity and focus on ocean health at the global level, particularly noting significant events such as the UN Oceans Conference, where a new action plan was agreed upon, and the recent COP31 climate change conference that prioritized ocean-related discussions. “WCPFC occupies a very important and unique position within that global ecosystem of oceans governance,” she remarked, underscoring the commission’s critical role amid these challenges.
The executive director stressed that managing tuna stocks cannot occur in isolation, as these stocks are intricately linked to the broader conversation about ocean health. She urged the Commission to recognize the interdependence of various ocean-related activities impacting the region. Dr. Moss-Christian encouraged the commission to leverage its extensive scientific data to bolster long-term fisheries security. “This year’s opportunity for the commission, entering its third decade, is to utilize the vast data and information collected regarding regional fishing activities and stock health, essential for sustaining that health in the future,” she elaborated, identifying the adoption of effective harvest strategies as vital.
Reflecting on the historical significance of past meetings in Manila, she expressed hope for cooperation and collaboration among members. Manila has served as the backdrop for crucial decisions in the Commission’s history, including a landmark revision of the tropical tuna measure in 2017. “We hope to avoid similar late-night discussions as we had that year,” Dr. Moss-Christian added lightheartedly.
While optimistic about the positive dynamics of the current meeting, she acknowledged that the path forward will be challenging. “We have tough negotiations ahead, but the conducive environment and spirit of hospitality here in Manila provide an encouraging start for us,” she concluded.
The developments at WCPFC22 represent not only a critical juncture for tuna fisheries management but also a broader commitment to the health of the oceans, fostering hope for improved collaborative efforts in the face of urgent environmental issues. Continued engagement and decisive action by the Commission can lead to more sustainable fisheries practices, thereby ensuring the long-term viability of critical marine resources.