19518
Open
SC/68D/HIM/02
Cetacean bycatch efforts in European waters
Dolman, S.J., Carlen, I., Adams, C., del Castillo, C., Condon, J. and Pierce, G.
IWC
The European Commission introduced infringement proceedings against the Netherlands for cetacean bycatch failings in 2022, in addition to France, Spain and Sweden back in 2020. The EU Fisheries Control Regulation, which should include data monitoring measures for cetacean bycatch, is under revision. The European Commission has consulted on an Action Plan to conserve fisheries resources and protect marine ecosystems, including where action is needed to address cetacean and other sensitive species bycatch. Several EU Member States and the UK individually and/or collectively have undertaken research on cetacean bycatch, although none identified are adequate to meet legal requirements to protect cetaceans. Regional updates are provided for the Baltic Proper, Bay of Biscay, Mediterranean, Black Sea and the UK.