According to the European Union, deficiencies have been identified in the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The implementation protocol of the fishing agreement between Senegal and the European Union (EU) expires on November 17, 2024, with no prospect of renewal.
This protocol, which began five years ago, will not be renewed "due to identified deficiencies in the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing," according to a statement from the EU delegation in Senegal. The European Commission, which has preliminarily identified Senegal as a "non-cooperating country" in the fight against IUU fishing, made this decision as part of its zero-tolerance policy.
Since May 2024, this classification has intensified exchanges between both parties, aiming to address the noted gaps. However, due to the lack of substantial progress, the EU has decided to suspend the renewal of the fishing protocol, requiring European vessels to leave Senegalese waters by the expiration date, effectively ending the financial contributions outlined in the agreement.
Formal discussions were held between Senegalese and European authorities to resolve the issues surrounding IUU fishing. Nonetheless, efforts made have not resulted in sufficient progress to allow the renewal of this strategic agreement.
Cooperation in the fishing sector between Senegal and the EU remains suspended until Dakar adopts more stringent measures to curb illegal fishing, reports the African Press Agency.
