International Whaling Commission Rejects Push to Revive Commercial Whaling

A push to reopen the door to commercial whaling failed at the recent meeting of the International Whaling Commission after a controversial resolution was taken off the table on the last day. The draft resolution, put forward by Antigua and Barbuda, called for discussion of the sustainable use of whale resources and introduced a path toward reintroducing commercial whaling. The resolution was ultimately withdrawn, leaving the IWC’s 40-year-old global moratorium on commercial whaling intact.

 

Details of the Meeting

 

The IWC held its biennial meeting. It took place in Hobart, Tasmania. It ran in late September and October. Around 400 delegates attended. These came from member governments and observers.

The meeting marked key anniversaries. It was 80 years since the IWC’s establishment. It was also 40 years since the moratorium. This took effect on commercial whaling. The meeting reflected on this history.

 

The Withdrawn Resolution

 

A controversial resolution was introduced. Antigua and Barbuda put it forward. Several nations co-sponsored it. It called for discussing sustainable use. It introduced a path to commercial whaling.

The resolution was ultimately withdrawn. Another nation withdrew it. It did not co-sponsor the bill. This left the moratorium intact. The moratorium continues on commercial whaling.

 

The Sanctuary Bid

 

A separate bid also failed. It concerned a South Atlantic sanctuary. This would establish a whale sanctuary. It failed to pass. This followed previous attempts.

The sanctuary had notable backing. It received many yes votes. However, it fell short. A minority of nations blocked it. It needed a three-quarters majority.

 

Read More: Species Discovery Workshop Yields 57 New Species From Mar del Plata Canyon

 

The Whaling Positions

 

The debate reflected divergent positions. Some nations support whaling. A few continue the practice. These include Norway and Iceland. Japan also allows it as an observer.

Critics raised concerns about influence. Some non-whaling nations back whaling. Observers noted alleged donor links. These concern Japanese aid. The parties did not respond to questions on this.

 

The Other Decisions

 

Several resolutions did pass. These addressed cetacean strandings. The fish maw trade was also covered. Vessel strikes featured too. A commemorative declaration also passed.

Some proposals were withdrawn, though. One concerned small cetaceans. An observer called this disappointing. Small cetaceans receive less attention. Yet they face significant threats.

 

The Criticism and Praise

 

The IWC drew mixed responses. Observers criticised its climate approach. One noted climate change was deprioritised. Some words were reportedly removed. This was from committee work plans.

Yet observers also praised the IWC. They valued its moratorium stance. They cited its scientific contributions. Conservation efforts were also praised. The next meeting is slated for 2028.