The sustainable fishing protocol between Senegal and the European Union (EU), signed for five years in 2019, will end on November 17, 2024. The EU has decided not to renew this agreement. This decision stems from concerns related to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, a global issue affecting the sustainability of fishery resources.
Non-renewal of the agreement
Since 2014, the EU and Senegal have maintained a partnership in the fishing sector, which was renewed in 2019 for five years. This protocol allows a fleet of European vessels, primarily from Spain and France, to fish in Senegalese waters in exchange for a financial contribution to the country’s budget. Between 2019 and 2024, this cooperation generated 8.5 million EUR for the Senegalese state, with a significant portion aimed at supporting the development of the fisheries sector and projects related to resource conservation.
However, the European Commission has highlighted shortcomings in the fight against IUU fishing in Senegal. In May 2024, the country was pre-identified as non-cooperative in this area. According to European authorities, these deficiencies undermine efforts to ensure sustainable exploitation of marine resources. Consequently, any renewal of the agreement remains contingent on concrete progress in traceability and control of fishing activities.
Diverging narratives
The Senegalese government and the EU have traded accusations over the interruption. The EU Ambassador to Senegal, Jean-Marc Pisani, asserts that the lack of renewal results from Senegal’s shortcomings in fighting illegal fishing. However, several Senegalese officials, including the Minister of Higher Education, Abdourahmane Diouf, claim that the decision came from Senegal itself, as part of an initiative to protect the interests of local fishermen.
These conflicting statements reflect underlying tensions regarding the impact of these agreements on the sustainability of marine resources and the livelihoods of coastal communities. For Dakar, preserving fish stocks is a priority to support artisanal fishing, a vital sector for the local economy.
The end of this agreement brings several repercussions. On the European side, an 18-vessel fleet, primarily specialized in tuna and black hake fishing, loses access to Senegalese waters. Although these catches represent less than 1 % of total fishing in Senegal, they remain strategically important for European operators.
For Senegal, the cessation of financial contributions from the agreement affects the funding of key projects, such as the construction of fishing infrastructure and scientific research initiatives. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that Senegal’s catches in 2022 amounted to 500,000 tons. However, this abundance hides a progressive depletion of certain species, exacerbated by the pressure exerted by foreign fleets.
Perspectives for local fishermen
Artisanal fishermen welcome the end of the agreement, hoping for an improvement in fish stocks. Testimonials highlight the difficulties local fishermen face due to increased competition and declining catches. Exclusive access to fishing zones could help revitalize this key sector.
However, the lack of strict regulatory mechanisms could exacerbate the current challenges. Sustainable resource management requires coordinated efforts to monitor fishing activities and strengthen regional cooperation. International organizations and bilateral partners can play a crucial role in this process.
Alternatives for Senegal
The suspension of this agreement provides an opportunity for Senegal to rethink its marine resource management strategy. Better valorization of artisanal fishing, which represents a significant portion of fish product exports, could stimulate the local economy. Promoting sustainable fishing, supported by investments in maritime monitoring and scientific research, is essential.
Dakar may also explore partnerships with other international or regional players while safeguarding its national interests. Renegotiating agreements with terms more favorable to local communities could be a viable path forward.
Global challenge for sustainability
IUU fishing is a global challenge. Illegal activities undermine marine ecosystems, reduce revenues for coastal states, and destabilize the livelihoods of local communities. Tackling this scourge requires enhanced cooperation between countries, including information exchange and the adoption of advanced technologies to monitor fleets.
For the EU, a zero-tolerance approach to IUU fishing aims to promote sustainable exploitation of global resources. While this stance is strict, it sends a clear message to partners: adherence to international standards is a prerequisite for any partnership.
The suspension of the fishing agreement between Senegal and the European Union marks a turning point in bilateral relations. While it poses short-term economic challenges, this decision offers an opportunity to rethink marine resource management. By implementing reforms and appropriate mechanisms, Dakar could transform this constraint into an opportunity, thereby strengthening the resilience of its fisheries sector.
