The 2006 reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act established the United States as the global leader in effective, sustainable fisheries management, codifying progressive reforms that have helped restore depleted fish stocks and ocean ecosystem health, while growing an American seafood industry that supports 1.4 million jobs.
Today, U.S. fisheries policy has become the standard for other coastal countries around the world. However, vast new challenges loom, from global warming to global seafood markets, and the outlook for international fisheries remains uncertain. Many countries lack the capacity or will to monitor their fish stocks or enforce regulations, allowing continued overfishing and rampant illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activity that abets seafood fraud and undermines the livelihoods of honest fishermen worldwide.
As the demand for seafood continues to increase, how should U.S. and international policymakers respond to ensure the continued availability of this crucial food source?
Please join the Center for American Progress and distinguished experts to reflect on the past 10 years of fisheries management in the United States and its influence on global regulation and explore solutions to address these evolving challenges.
Introductory remarks:
Michael Conathan, Director, Ocean Policy
Panelists:
Mike Connor, Global Managing Director for Oceans, The Nature Conservancy; former EU Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries
The Honorable Dr. Jane Lubchenco, Distinguished University Professor at Oregon State and Adviser in Marine Studies
U.S. Science Envoy for the Ocean, U.S. Department of State
Margaret Spring, Vice President of Conservation & Science and Chief Conservation Officer, Monterey Bay Aquarium
Moderator:
Michael Conathan, Director, Ocean Policy