Strengthening the protection of sharks and rays

The Seychelles are emphasizing the preservation of their populations from sharks and rays by opening a workshop to assess the current situation and define concrete measures for the future.

The two-day event brought together wildlife conservation officials from essential areas to address the challenges facing these vulnerable species. According to Ashley Dias, Director of Biodiversity Conservation, the Ministry of Environment is revising the law, which will soon be called the Wildlife Protection Bill. However, discussions are still ongoing with stakeholders and partners to determine which other species will be included in the list.

Globally, sharks, rays, and chimeras are the most endangered marine taxa. Overfishing, habitat loss, and climate change endanger more than a third of shark species. Although the Seychelles make international commitments to preserving these species, only one shark, the whale shark, is currently protected under national legislation.

Experts from organizations such as the Wildlife Conservation Society and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) are participating in the event. Participants benefit from the latest information on the status of sharks and rays in the region and globally from these experts. By reflecting on these crucial issues, the Seychelles aim to strengthen their participation in the global effort to preserve these iconic and dangerous marine animals.