Calls for Review of HELCOM Seal Recommendations Amid Fishing Concerns
Debate intensifies over HELCOM's seal management policies affecting Swedish fisheries.
Key Points
- • Controversy over HELCOM's seal recommendations impacting fisheries
- • Call for revision of recommendations for sustainable fishing
- • Significant opposition from Denmark and Finland to Sweden's proposals
- • Lunneryd suggests halving grey seal population to preserve coastal fishing
Controversy surrounds the HELCOM seal management recommendations, particularly in Sweden, where calls are intensifying for a revision. Sven Gunnar Lunneryd, in a recent op-ed, criticized the recommendations which prioritize seal populations over the sustainability of coastal fisheries. He stated that the current seal population is now equal to what it was 30 years ago, thus severely impacting fish stocks and livelihoods associated with coastal fishing.
During a recent HELCOM meeting, discussions were held regarding the need to revise these recommendations to adopt an ecosystem-based management approach. However, this proposition has faced significant resistance from other member countries, including Denmark and Finland, who oppose Sweden's push for change. Lunneryd advocates for Sweden to consider distancing itself from HELCOM, proposing the drastic measure of halving the grey seal population to protect Sweden's fishing industry. This debate underscores the tension between environmental and economic priorities in the region, highlighting the urgent need for solutions that address both ecological integrity and the sustainability of Sweden's coastal fisheries.