By Loretta B Manele

Climate change and overfishing have been highlighted as significant challenges in ensuring sustainability for Pacific Islands fisheries.

Baron Divavesi Waqa, former Nauruan President and the current Secretary General for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) spoke about this at the Honiara Summit- “Umi tugeda delivering on SDG 14.4: Achieving Sustainable Fisheries.”

He expressed that despite what the Pacific region has achieved in terms of sustainable fisheries, there are still significant challenges to address.

Waqa listed climate change and overfishing as two challenges when it comes to sustainable fisheries.

He voiced that climate change is altering the distribution and migratory patterns of tuna stocks, threatening the economic stability of Small Islands Developing States (SIDS).

As for “overfishing”, Waqa said this is driven by IUU (Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated) fishing operators which continue to pose serious threats to the sustainability of our marine ecosystems.

Waqa said addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders.

He stated that the scourge of IUU fishing on the marine ecosystem, our economies and the livelihoods of our coastal communities must be curtailed.

Waqa mentioned that studies show that USD35.4 billion was provided as subsidies to private fishing enterprises for capacity-enhancing.

“We have a golden opportunity to address and curb harmful fisheries subsidies by supporting the work of the World Trade Organisation.

“I echo the call by our leaders by encouraging all WTO Forum Members to work together to conclude the remaining pillars of the fisheries subsidies negotiations of overcapacity and overfishing.”

He urged all forum members, distant water fishing nations, international and regional institutions to reaffirm their commitment to regional cooperation and sustainable fisheries management within the Pacific region.

“Together, we can overcome the challenges we face and build a prosperous blue Pacific for all Pacific Islanders. Let us work hand in hand to ensure that our fisheries remain a source of sustenance and prosperity for generations to come.”

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