Implementation of IPOA/IUU - International MCS Network

658.3.9 Cooperation among RFMOs and between RFMOs and otherInternational OrganizationsFinally, RFMOs should enhance the coordination of their actions toprevent, deter and eliminate IUU fishing. Many RFMOs and related institutionshave begun to do so, or at least have expressed the intention of doing so. 131 Inparticular, RFMOs must increase the speed and scope of the exchange ofinformation on IUU fishing, particularly with respect to fleet movement,compliance, management and trade. 132While the mobility of fishing fleets makes cooperation among allRFMOs a necessity, this is particularly true in regions where IUU fishing is theconcern of two or more RFMOs. One possibility for reducing IUU fishingthroughout such a region would be to link measures adopted by one RFMO withthose of the others in that region. For example, ICCAT, NAFO, NEAFC, GFCMand SEAFO could conceivably have an interlocking system for port Statemeasures with respect to fisheries in the Atlantic region. 133Other international organizations and mechanisms can contribute toimplementation of the IPOA-IUU as well. In 1999, for example, the APECFisheries Working Group adopted recommendations on the issuance of “flags ofconvenience” and on IUU fishing. These actions recommended that each APECmember economy, among other things, discourage its nationals and companiesfrom engaging in activities on fishing vessels that are undermining fisheryconservation and management regimes, and promote international cooperationfor progressively eliminating such activities. The recommendations also calledupon member economies to participate fully in efforts to deal effectively with allforms of IUU fishing, including fishing by vessels flying “flags ofconvenience.” 1349. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS OF DEVELOPING COUNTRIESDeveloping States, particularly small island developing States and otherdeveloping coastal States, are among those that suffer the most from the adverseeffects of IUU fishing. With the exception of some developing States with largefishery sectors, most governments in developing States lack the resources andinfrastructure to monitor and enforce capture fishery regulations effectively.131 CCAMLR, CCSBT, FFA, IATTC, IBSFC, ICCAT, IOTC, NAFO, NASCO, NEAFCand NPAFC report participation in, or plans for, coordination with other RFMOs.132 J. Swan, supra note 113.133 For further discussion of this concept, see T. Lobach, supra note 34.134 M. Komatsu, supra note 20.