By Pita Ligaiula in Manila, Philippines
Next week marks a pivotal moment for the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), as significant concerns regarding monitoring and high-seas transshipment take center stage. Bubba Cook, the Sharks Pacific Policy Director, has voiced critical reservations about the Commission’s progress, highlighting that members seem to be avoiding the crucial truths surrounding these pressing issues.
In a recent interview with PACNEWS, Cook pointed out that the transition toward electronic monitoring is currently minimal, stressing the lack of substantial action on high-seas transshipment—a contentious issue that continues to divide the Commission. “I don’t see ‘concrete progress’ occurring at this meeting with respect to electronic monitoring/observer coverage,” Cook stated.
Although there have been some minor advancements, including an agreement on audit standards for Electronic Monitoring (EM) programs and renewed activity for the Electronic Reporting and Electronic Monitoring (EREM) Working Group, Cook emphasized that deep-rooted opposition remains. Countries and fleets that have traditionally resisted expanding observer coverage seem likely to continue their opposition unless compelled by market and technological pressures.
Regarding high-seas transshipment, Cook delivered a sobering assessment. While there are slight indications of progress, he expressed low confidence in achieving meaningful reforms during this meeting. He criticized South Korea’s proposal, perceiving it as an effort to uphold the status quo by shifting the responsibility of monitoring and control onto Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Cook highlighted the increasing rift between Asian distant-water fishing nations (ADWFN), which favor lenient transshipment oversight, and the urgent need to protect the region’s marine resources. He pointed out that Pacific Island states are approaching a critical juncture, with the Marshall Islands advocating for a complete ban on high-seas transshipment, a position they have held since 2008.
A significant barrier to reform, according to Cook, is the WCPFC’s consensus system, which allows member nations to block even modest changes without consequences. He stressed that forcing a vote may be the only way to overcome the stalemate, holding the ADWFN accountable for their hesitance to embrace necessary reforms.
As the Manila meeting approaches, the spotlight will be on whether the Commission can address these urgent issues surrounding high-seas accountability or if it will continue evading substantial action. There remains an opportunity for positive change if the Commission can capitalize on this moment to implement significant reforms that prioritize sustainability and accountability in Pacific fisheries.