Marine resources facing exploitation

PAPUA New Guinea, known for its rich marine biodiversity and vibrant coral reefs, is facing a looming crisis: the rampant issue of illegal fishing.
This illicit practice not only threatens PNG’s valuable marine resources but also poses a significant challenge to the nation’s socio-economic development and food security.
Illegal fishing in PNG waters is primarily carried out by large-scale foreign industrial vessels that exploit vulnerabilities in monitoring systems and enforcement mechanisms.
These vessels operate under the cover of night, using banned fishing methods and disregard established regulations and quotas.
Transnational organised crime syndicates, facilitate and exploit this black market by smuggling the illegally caught fish and marine products across borders.
The consequences of illegal fishing are both environmental and socio-economic.
Overfishing and destructive practices, such as bottom trawling, which indiscriminately scrape the ocean floor, contribute to the depletion of fish stocks and the destruction of vulnerable habitats.
As a result, PNG’s unique marine ecosystem is under immense strain, affecting the delicate balance of biodiversity upon which countless livelihoods and indigenous cultures depend.
The rampant illegal fishing activity in PNG has dire economic consequences.
The disappearance of fish stocks threatens the livelihoods of thousands of coastal communities who rely on fishing as their primary source of income and sustenance.
The loss of marine resources also impacts the tourism industry, a crucial sector for PNG’s economy, as the destruction of coral reefs and declining fish populations contribute to a significant decline in marine-based tourism.
PNG, like many Pacific island nations, heavily relies on fish as a vital source of protein.
The depletion of fish stocks, exacerbated by illegal fishing, leads to reduced catches, diminishing food security for both coastal communities and the wider population.
Rising demand for fish, coupled with the decline in supply, may result in increased prices and food insecurity, forcing vulnerable communities across the country to bear the brunt of this crisis.
One of the main challenges in combating illegal fishing in PNG is the lack of robust monitoring and enforcement capabilities.
Insufficient resources and training, as well as limited surveillance capacity, hamper the ability of authorities to effectively police the vast expanse of PNG’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Collaborative efforts between PNG’s government agencies, international organisations, and neighbouring countries are essential to strengthen monitoring systems, intelligence sharing, and cross-border cooperation.
Addressing the illegal fishing crisis in PNG requires multifaceted approaches.
Strengthening legislation and enforcement measures, including stricter penalties and vessel surveillance systems, are crucial to deter and punish offenders.
Boosting maritime patrol capabilities and investing in technology, such as electronic monitoring systems and satellite surveillance, will significantly enhance PNG’s capacity to detect and apprehend illegal fishing vessels.
Illegal fishing is a transboundary issue, requiring concerted efforts and collaboration among regional partners.
PNG should continue to engage neighbouring countries and regional bodies such as the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), the Western Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), and the Coral Triangle Initiative to develop and implement comprehensive regional strategies to combat illegal fishing.
Cooperation through joint patrols, information sharing, and capacity-building initiatives would ensure a more effective response.
Engaging local communities, including indigenous peoples, fishers, and coastal residents, is vital in the fight against illegal fishing.
Community-based surveillance and reporting networks can provide valuable information to authorities, enabling prompt action against illegal activities.
Empowering communities through education, training, and alternative livelihood opportunities can also contribute to sustainable fisheries management and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for marine resources.
The illegal fishing crisis in PNG poses a significant threat to the nation’s marine resources, economy, and food security.
Urgent action and collaboration are needed at various levels to combat this pervasive problem.
Strengthening monitoring and enforcement, regional cooperation, community engagement, and sustainable fisheries management practices are critical if PNG is to protect its marine biodiversity, secure livelihoods, and ensure the long-term sustainability of its precious marine resources.
Let us rise together and take a stand against the bleeding of our seas, for the future of PNG and generations to come.

Romel Kuman