IUU Fishing (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing)

Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing refers to fishing activities that violate laws or lack proper reporting. Illegal fishing involves breaking regulations set by authorities, such as fishing in protected areas or catching species beyond limits. Unreported fishing is when catch data is not reported to authorities, making it hard to monitor. Unregulated fishing occurs outside official management or beyond legal frameworks. IUU fishing depletes fish populations, damages ecosystems, and undermines sustainable fisheries. It often involves clandestine practices, making it difficult to control and leading to economic losses and ecological harm worldwide.