International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas

General Information

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What is it about?

This instrument, regulating fishing of tuna, applies to all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and adjacent seas, including the Mediterranean Sea. There is no precise definition in terms of longitude and latitude. The Convention’s principal objective is to co-operate in maintaining the population of tunas and tuna-like species found in the Atlantic Ocean and the adjacent seas at levels that will permit the maximum sustainable catch for food and other purposes. Following the entry into force of the present Convention, the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) was established. This Commission is responsible for studying the populations of tuna and tuna-like fishes and such other species of fishes exploited in tuna fishing. Headquartered in Madrid, it is required to conduct scientific research and appraise information concerning measures and methods to ensure maintenance of the populations of tuna and tuna-like fishes in the Convention area. All recommendations made by the Commission become effective for State parties six months after their date of notification, though objections may be made.

Why is it relevant?

By ensuring an improved conservation of tuna stocks, this instrument allows for the renewal of these marine species and enables their availability for future exploit. As with other FAO instruments, a halt to overuse is implemented.

Additional Information

All Member States of the United Nations can ratify the Convention. Certain technical provisions were modified by the Paris Protocol of July 10, 1984. The Commission is open to any Government which is a Member of the United Nations or of any specialized agency of the United Nations and to any inter-governmental economic integration organization constituted by States that have transferred to it competence over the matters governed by the Convention, including the competence to enter into treaties in respect of those matters. Instruments of ratification, approval, or adherence may be deposited with the Director-General of the FAO, and membership is effective on the date of such deposit.

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