(NEWS) Mediterranean Summer Academy on IUU Fishing Delivered by the WMU CAPFISH Project

September

2023

Mediterranean Summer Academy on IUU Fishing Delivered by the WMU CAPFISH Project

From 14-25 August, the World Maritime University (WMU) hosted a Summer Academy on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing as part of the CAPFISH research project sponsored by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) of the Republic of Korea and delivered in cooperation with the Korea Maritime Institute (KMI). The Mediterranean focused, two-week programme covered a number of topics related to IUU fishing and fisheries more broadly, in order to raise awareness of global and regional problems as well as tools available to address them.

Professor Max Mejia, WMU President, welcomed the participants by noting that IUU fishing is one of the biggest ocean and maritime challenges saying, “Not only does it have far-reaching economic consequences, it is also associated with labour abuses, including slavery-like conditions and other human rights infringements, organized crime, environmental degradation, and security and socioeconomic challenges. As IUU fishing is a complex and difficult problem, cooperation and collaboration are necessary to address it effectively.”

During its first two years, the CAPFISH Project ran four global workshops aimed at building capacity in developing regions. These workshops reached over 100 practitioners in maritime and ocean administrations across the developing world. To better facilitate regional cooperation to address IUU fishing, CAPFISH has now moved into a new phase and will offer programmes in different developing regions, beginning with this first Mediterranean-focused Summer Academy that included 23 practitioners from fisheries administrations across the Mediterranean including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Lebanon, Türkiye, Albania and Montenegro. The Project team worked closely with the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) to deliver the Summer Academy with GFCM providing invaluable expertise and assistance on regional matters, and assistance in identifying delegates as well as securing their in-person participation.

Through case studies, panels, and interactive sessions, participants had the opportunity to engage with each other, highlight local and regional issues, and consider solutions to local problems. Experts from the FAO, UN DOALOS, UNODC, GFCM, the National Institute of Fisheries Science in Korea, the Korea Coast Guard, and academia delivered a series of presentations on blue economy, international and regional fisheries governance, IUU fishing and other maritime crimes, small-scale fisheries, labour and safety on fishing vessels, trade in fish, and cooperation to fight IUU fishing. Interactive activities included surveys, vessel tracking exercises with Global Fishing Watch, the creation of a roadmap to improve safety in the region, a visit to the SEA-U Marine Science Centre, and presentations by delegates on IUU fishing and cooperation at regional and sub-regional level. The delegates also participated in a role-playing exercise developed by the Pew Charitable Trusts, in which they took the role of either fishers or coast guard and developed policy solutions to problems identified during the course of the exercise. It was an important learning experience, as the delegates could see the effects of their policy decisions play out in real time.

The Summer Academy closed with remarks from Dr Miguel Bernal, the Executive Secretary of GFCM saying, “We all have a responsibility to work together towards the eradication of illegal fishing; if we are able to efficiently implement some of the ideas that have been discussed during this course, we would make big advances in this direction and leave the sector in a better situation for future generations.”

As a trans-disciplinary initiative, the CAPFISH Project surfaces knowledge and breaks silos to provide a comprehensive picture of IUU fishing to identify adequate responses. CAPFISH aligns SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) with SDG 4 (Quality Education) to address the problem that IUU fishing presents for achieving SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

To access the programme from the Mediterranean Summer Academy, click here.

‍

‍

Related Documents

No items found.

Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.

My research explored thetheoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis onmaritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the studyconducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritimegovernance—specifically, the implementation of International MaritimeOrganization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affectthe implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, theresearch aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmlyanchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling theintricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMOinstruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivatedby a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies inmaritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of ascarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in theexisting body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration,underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area ofmaritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarlyresearch.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of myeducational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections withinfluential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of theglobe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an internationalscale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also servedas a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding ofdifferent perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantlyto my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networkingand has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within theCaribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path,my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritimegovernance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the globalmaritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by apassionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritimedomain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly topositive transformations in the global maritime sector.

‍

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

The Transition to low and near zero carbon emission ports: Extent and Determinants

The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards

When I made the decision to embark on the journey of pursuing both my MScand PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for severalcompelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as aworld-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wieldedsignificant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a seniorprofessional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of acaptain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexusfor both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the disseminationof my wealth of industry experience.

WMU's unwavering commitment tomaritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realmsof academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMUwas the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched inmaritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University'sstoried tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within themaritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for myeducational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approachto maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

My research focus during my tenureat WMU was centered on the pivotal subject of achieving net-zero emissions inthe maritime sector, encompassing both offshore and onshore infrastructures,including ports and shipyards. This particular research avenue held greatappeal for me due to its unique capacity to amalgamate my extensive practicalexperience as a captain within the maritime operational field with the rigorousacademic environment provided by WMU. The maritime industry is inherentlydynamic, constantly undergoing transformative changes, and I was deeplyconvinced that my research endeavors could significantly contribute toenhancing sustainability within this vital sector. The prospect of influencingpositive change by addressing contemporary challenges and emerging trends inthe maritime industry, all closely aligned with my professional background,served as a compelling motivation for my choice of research focus.

One of the most memorable aspectsof my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant andinclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members andfellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been anincredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmospherehas offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectivesthat would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focusedsetting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritimedisciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching myeducational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtfuldiscussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritimetopics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time atWMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network ofmaritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections withprofessionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have notonly broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension tomy educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.

Upon graduation, I was awarded aprestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit ofnet-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University ofSouthampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the nextphase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed tocontinuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building uponthe invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. Myprimary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of thezero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within ourglobal community.

‍

The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards