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Published on: September 16, 2020
Fish crimes in the global oceans.
Dyhia Belhabib1,2, Philippe Le Billon3
1Ecotrust Canada, 312 Main St., Vancouver, BC V6A 2T2, Canada.
A global analysis of fisheries offenses reveals that 33% of recorded crimes are linked to industrial vessels from China, the EU, and tax havens. The study identifies patterns of "transversal criminality" and calls for enhanced enforcement to ensure sustainable fisheries.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Criminology
- International Law
Background:
- Fisheries-related offenses pose a significant threat to global marine ecosystems and economies.
- Existing data repositories on maritime crime often lack comprehensive analysis of transnational criminal networks.
- Understanding the linkages between various offenses is crucial for effective fisheries management and enforcement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a global assessment of fisheries-related offenses from 2000 to 2020.
- To identify patterns of
- transversal criminality
- and associated offenders.
- To highlight countries most vulnerable to these criminal activities.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a large repository containing 6853 reported fisheries-related offenses.
- Categorization of offenses into 18 types, including illegal fishing, human rights abuses, and smuggling.
- Identification of links between offenses and specific industrial vessels and companies.
Main Results:
- At least 33% of recorded offenses are linked to 450 industrial vessels and 20 companies from China, the EU, and tax havens.
- Transversal criminality, involving multiple offense types, was observed for 779 vessels, accounting for 2000 offenses globally.
- The study demonstrates the capacity to identify offenders and behavioral patterns threatening fisheries sustainability.
Conclusions:
- Greater information sharing and interagency cooperation are essential to combat fisheries crime.
- Stringent enforcement measures are needed to hold major offenders accountable.
- Addressing underreporting and impunity is critical for achieving sustainable global fisheries.

