ICCATs

ICCAT, the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas, is an intergovernmental organization established by the ICCAT Convention of 1966 and entering into force in 1969. Its mandate is to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable use of tuna and tuna-like species in the Atlantic Ocean and adjacent seas, including the Mediterranean. The commission coordinates scientific research and management measures to maintain healthy fisheries and ecosystem balance.

Decision making is supported by a Scientific Committee that reviews stock status and develops assessments, while a Compliance Committee monitors implementation and strengthens enforcement. The organization issues binding Recommendations that set catch limits, gear restrictions, seasonal closures, and other measures designed to control fishing pressure and reduce bycatch. National authorities implement these measures in fleets that fly their flags.

ICCAT's membership includes states from Europe, Africa, and the Americas, plus the European Union as a member and a group of cooperating non-contracting parties. The commission's work covers primary targets such as bluefin, yellowfin, skipjack, and bigeye tunas, as well as swordfish and other tuna-like species, with data collection and reporting programs to support stock assessments.

Over time, ICCAT has contributed to reductions in fishing mortality for some stocks, particularly Atlantic bluefin tuna, through catch limits and technical measures. Critics note ongoing challenges in compliance, data gaps, and the need for coherent conservation across ranges and fleets. Proponents emphasize the role of science-based management and regional cooperation in sustaining fisheries and regional economies.