Mombasa Declaration: Advancing Fisheries Transparency

The Mombasa Declaration marks a significant step towards enhancing transparency in fisheries governance, addressing illegal fishing and associated human rights issues. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 2 and 3, focusing on governance and environmental issues. Last Updated: 22-06-2026

Key Facts About the Mombasa Declaration

• The Coalition for Fisheries Transparency is a global network of over 60 civil society organizations.
• The declaration calls for coastal and flag States to enhance fisheries transparency.
• It is anchored in the Global Charter for Fisheries Transparency.
• Signatory countries have agreed to modernize vessel registries and publish fishing authorizations.
• Countries such as Belgium, Cameroon, Chile, Ghana, Guinea, and others have endorsed the declaration.
• Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing costs the global economy up to $50 billion annually.
• IUU fishing is linked to severe human rights violations, including forced labor.

Global Efforts in Fisheries Governance

The Mombasa Declaration is a pivotal move in global efforts to improve fisheries governance, aligning with international goals for sustainable marine resource management. This initiative contributes to economic stability and food security, particularly in developing countries. The global cost of IUU fishing highlights the need for international cooperation, with countries like India encouraged to join these efforts.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, transparency, and accountability in public administration.
• GS Paper 3: Environmental conservation, sustainable development, and marine resources.
• Prelims Angle: Questions could focus on the Coalition for Fisheries Transparency and the Global Charter for Fisheries Transparency.
• Mains Angle: Analytical themes could include the impact of IUU fishing on global economies and human rights issues.

FAQ Section

• What is the Mombasa Declaration? The Mombasa Declaration is an initiative aimed at enhancing transparency in fisheries governance to combat illegal fishing and associated human rights issues.
• Why is the Mombasa Declaration important? It addresses illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, which poses threats to marine ecosystems, food security, and livelihoods.
• What are the key features of the Mombasa Declaration? Key features include modernizing vessel registries, publishing fishing authorizations, and improving information-sharing mechanisms among signatory countries.