The global fishing industry plays a vital role in ensuring food security, supporting economic equality, and sustaining marine biodiversity. However, the increasing prevalence of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing poses a severe threat to these essential functions. Reports from the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) have shed light on the intricate link between IUU fishing and human rights abuses, particularly within China’s distant-water fleet (DWF). The implications extend beyond the depletion of marine ecosystems, affecting social justice, economic stability, and climate action.
China’s distant-water fleet (DWF), the largest in the world, operates across multiple global fishing grounds, extracting vast quantities of fish, often in unsustainable and exploitative ways. EJF investigations highlight that this fleet is frequently associated with illegal fishing, human rights violations, and environmental destruction. The Southwest Indian Ocean (SWIO) is one such region facing these challenges, where coastal communities rely on fisheries for their livelihoods. The presence of China’s fleet raises concerns over the sustainability of marine resources and the fairness of its economic influence in the region.
Key statistics:
· 93% of global fish stocks are either overfished or fully exploited (FAO, 2022).
· Up to 26 million tonnes of seafood are caught annually through IUU fishing, valued at $23 billion (UNEP, 2023).
· In Ghana, 60% of industrial fishing vessels are linked to Chinese ownership, contributing to severe overfishing and economic exploitation (EJF, 2023).
· Forced labour is widespread, with crew members reporting physical abuse, intimidation, and debt bondage aboard fishing vessels (EJF, 2022).
"Blood and Water" report findings:
EJF’s Blood and Water report exposes systemic labour exploitation and illegal fishing. Documented cases include:
· Forced labour: Workers aboard Chinese vessels report being subjected to violence, excessive working hours, and withheld wages.
· Environmental destruction: Widespread shark finning, capture of protected species, and habitat degradation threaten biodiversity.
· Governance undermined: Many vessels operate under flags of convenience, avoiding accountability and national regulations.
Ghana's fisheries crisis:
Ghana’s fishing industry, crucial for local livelihoods, is being devastated by industrial trawlers, primarily of Chinese origin. Systemic corruption allows these fleets to engage in illegal fishing, leading to resource depletion and increased poverty among artisanal fishers.
While China promotes blue economy investments in the SWIO, evidence suggests its fleet is systematically involved in IUU fishing. These activities contradict sustainability goals, endangering marine resources and community welfare.
Towards sustainable fisheries and social justice
To combat these issues, global collaboration and strong institutions are essential. EJF advocates for greater transparency and enforcement of international fisheries regulations to ensure a fair and sustainable future. Key recommendations include:
· Mandatory public vessel tracking to monitor illegal activities.
· Stronger legal frameworks to prosecute human rights violations and IUU fishing.
· International cooperation to hold corporate and national actors accountable.
· Investment in sustainable fisheries management to protect biodiversity and support local economies.
Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as climate action, economic equality, and peace and justice requires a concerted effort from governments, industries, and civil society. The global society must demand ethical seafood sourcing, transparency in the fishing industry, and the protection of both marine ecosystems and human rights.
The crisis of IUU fishing and human rights abuses threatens the future of our oceans and global food security. As scientific research continues to reveal the extent of this damage, urgent policy reforms and accountability measures are needed. The international community must work towards a sustainable, just, and transparent fisheries sector.
For further information on the EJF’s advocacy efforts and global reforms, visit Environmental Justice Foundation.