International Whaling Commission

International Whaling Commission members

Japan Factory Ship Nisshin Maru Whaling Mother and Calf

Japan whaling since 1985

NorwegianWhaleCatches

International Whaling Commission (IWC)

The International Whaling Commission (IWC) is an international body established in 1946 under the terms of the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (ICRW). The IWC was created to provide for the proper conservation of whale populations and thus make possible the orderly development of the whaling industry. An important role of the IWC is to oversee the management of whale stocks and to set annual catch limits to prevent overhunting and ensure the sustainability of whale populations.

History

The IWC was established in response to growing concerns over the decline of whale populations from overhunting. In the early 20th century, advancements in whaling technology led to an increase in the number of whales killed, prompting international discussions on the need for conservation measures. The International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, signed in 1946, marked the beginning of international cooperation in whale conservation.

Function

The main functions of the IWC include the review and amendment of the Schedule to the Convention, which contains specific measures for the conservation and management of whale stocks. These measures include setting catch limits for commercial whaling, protecting certain species, designating whale sanctuaries, and regulating hunting methods and times to minimize suffering.

Membership

Membership in the IWC is open to any country that formally adheres to the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling. As of the last update, over 80 countries are members of the IWC. Members are classified into two main groups: whaling nations that support sustainable whaling under strict regulation, and non-whaling nations that advocate for the complete protection of whales and the cessation of whaling.

Controversies and Challenges

The IWC has been the center of many controversies, primarily due to differing views on whaling between member countries. Some countries, such as Japan, Norway, and Iceland, have sought to continue or resume commercial whaling under the argument of sustainable use, while many other countries and non-governmental organizations oppose all forms of commercial whaling, advocating for the protection of whales as part of global biodiversity conservation efforts.

In 1982, the IWC adopted a moratorium on commercial whaling, which came into effect in 1986. However, some countries object to the moratorium and continue whaling under objections or reservations to the moratorium, or under the guise of scientific research. The issue of so-called "scientific whaling" has been particularly contentious, with critics arguing that it is a loophole exploited by some countries to continue commercial whaling.

Recent Developments

In recent years, the IWC has focused on non-lethal uses of whales, promoting whale watching as a sustainable alternative to whaling that can provide economic benefits to coastal communities. The Commission also works on a variety of conservation issues beyond whaling, including ship strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and the impact of marine debris on whale populations.

Conclusion

The International Whaling Commission plays a crucial role in the conservation of whales and the management of whaling practices worldwide. Despite its challenges and controversies, the IWC remains a pivotal platform for international dialogue and cooperation on whale conservation.