The Persistence of Whaling: A Closer Look at Global Practices
Whaling has been a contentious issue on the global stage for decades, sparking debates about conservation, animal rights, and cultural practices. Although the International Whaling Commission (IWC) adopted a moratorium on commercial whaling in 1982, the practice persists in various forms today. This blog delves into the intricacies of whaling practices, regulatory loopholes, and the current state of whale populations.
Historical Context of Whaling
The 20th century witnessed a significant decline in whale populations due to extensive commercial whaling. According to a report by the IWC, an estimated 2.9 million whales were killed during this period. The situation prompted the IWC to implement a moratorium in 1986, effectively halting commercial whale hunting. Despite this effort, whaling continues, albeit at reduced levels, with 1,213 whales reported killed in 2023 alone.
Current Statistics: The 2023 Whaling Report
Recent data from the IWC highlights both legal and illegal whaling activities:
- Commercial Whaling: Out of the 1,213 whales killed in 2023, 550 were categorized as killed under “objection,” “reservation,” or infractions—often indicating non-compliance with IWC regulations. Additionally, countries that are not members of the IWC accounted for 294 of these kills.
- Aboriginal Whaling: The moratorium does allow certain indigenous communities to engage in whaling for subsistence. In 2023, 369 whales were killed through this practice by communities in locations such as Denmark, Russia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and the United States.
Loopholes in the IWC Moratorium
While the IWC aims to protect whale populations, specific exemptions have been exploited by certain nations:
Scientific Permits
The IWC permits member nations to issue "Scientific Permits," which has been utilized by countries like Japan, Norway, and Iceland to continue commercial whaling.
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Iceland: Since 2006, Iceland has killed a staggering 1,024 fin whales and 454 minke whales under these permits. Most of these products have been exported, primarily to Japan. The recent issuance of a permit for commercial whaling in 2024 indicates a continuation of this trend.
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Norway: After filing an objection to the moratorium in 1982, Norway has engaged in various whaling programs. The country has faced sanctions regarding its seafood products but has found ways to continue whaling under the guise of scientific research.
- Japan: Known for its contentious whaling practices, Japan initially killed thousands of whales under objection to the moratorium but later withdrew this objection amidst international pressure. Between 1987 and 2019, about 17,637 whales were killed under special permits, showcasing an extensive loophole exploited for commercial gain.
The Role of CITES
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) aims to protect various whale species by prohibiting international trade in their parts for commercial purposes. However, Norway, Iceland, and Japan have expressed reservations on various listings, allowing them to trade whale products among themselves and with non-parties.
Inhumane Practices in Whale Killing
Despite advancements in conservation, reports indicate that inhumane methods of whale killing persist. Harpoons with explosive penthrite grenade heads remain an approved method, raising ethical concerns about animal welfare. While whale meat consumption is declining globally, the demand for whale products such as oil, blubber, and cartilage continues to fuel these practices.
Summary of Challenges and Future Outlook
The current landscape of whaling represents a complex interplay of cultural practices, international regulations, and ethical considerations. The ongoing challenges highlight the necessity for robust enforcement of conservation laws and a reevaluation of the systemic loopholes that allow whaling to persist, even in the face of a global trend towards marine conservation.
