The Marshall Islands has expressed critical concerns regarding the direct impact of decisions made by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC22) on its security, economy, and long-term survival. At a recent session, Anthony M. Muller, the Minister of Natural Resources and Commerce and Chair of the Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority (MIMRA) Board, highlighted the urgent need for stronger actions concerning the rights of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), as well as reforms in transshipment practices and management of South Pacific albacore.
Muller emphasized the importance of sustainable governance of tuna resources, essential for the daily lives, economic goals, food security, and overall development of his country. He articulated the nation’s approach to the session as one driven by a clear purpose and an unwavering commitment to protecting the ocean that surrounds them, which is vital to their identity and survival.
Three primary national priorities were outlined by Muller, with a call for the Commission Members to ensure outcomes that are meaningful and forward-focused. He underscored the necessity of Article 30 in facilitating SIDS participation in regional fisheries, noting that the reassessment of CMM 2013-06 should do the following: strengthen capacity-building and technology transfer obligations, mitigate the disproportionate compliance burdens faced by SIDS, and protect the sovereign rights of these nations to develop and utilize their fisheries resources.
Muller spotlighted the need for enhanced oversight of high-seas longline transshipment, which he described as poorly monitored and prone to exploitation. He advocated for a shift towards in-port or designated exclusive economic zone (EEZ) transshipment that is fully monitored and verified, alongside greater harmonization of reporting with frameworks like those of the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) and the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA). He called for mandatory comprehensive observer or electronic monitoring on all carrier vessels to bolster integrity within the Commission.
Regarding South Pacific albacore, Muller conveyed that it serves as a crucial economic lifeline for many Pacific economies, yet SIDS longline fleets face challenges such as declining profitability and operational uncertainties. He urged the Commission to implement management strategies that uphold the economic viability and stability of these fleets, promote a science-based harvest strategy, and integrate the developmental needs of SIDS throughout management procedures.
Muller reminded the delegates that these negotiations are of paramount importance for the Marshall Islands, intertwining with their national security, economic resilience, cultural identity, and survival as an island nation. He challenged the members to amplify the voices and needs of SIDS and protect the vital resources for their future.
In closing, Muller expressed the Marshall Islands’ willingness to collaborate sincerely, arguing for WCPFC22 to be recognized for its unity, ambition, and decisive actions. The call for strengthened management and oversight reflects a hopeful vision for the sustainable future of marine resources in the Pacific, ensuring that the needs of the most vulnerable nations are recognized in global dialogues.