By Kisean Joseph
Antigua and Barbuda is at the centre of worldwide controversy as the International Whaling Commission (IWC) meeting – at which the twin island nation is seeking to have a decades-old hunting ban lifted – gets underway today.
The country has submitted a resolution for consideration at the meeting in Peru, calling for an end to the long moratorium on hunting whales for meat.
Martha Watkins-Gilkes, of the Antigua Barbuda Independent Tourism Promotion Corporation (ABITPC) and an eminent diver, is a vocal opponent of the resolution.
“As a concerned citizen and environmentalist I must ask, what benefit does the average Antiguan gain from our country supporting the slaughter of whales and being labelled as a pro-whaling nation?” Gilkes questioned, highlighting that whale meat consumption is not common in Antigua.
The resolution has attracted international attention, with a coalition of 25 NGOs, representing over 10 million members worldwide, urging Prime Minister Gaston Brown and Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez to withdraw it. These organisations warn that Antigua’s pro-whaling stance could significantly damage its vital tourism sector.
Miguel Garcia, of the local Environmental Awareness Group (EAG), emphasised the critical ecological role of whales.
“Whales are crucial for nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration in the oceans,” he explained.
He described the “whale pump” phenomenon, where whales bring nutrients from the deep ocean to surface waters, promoting phytoplankton growth and supporting entire food chains.
Garcia also highlighted whales’ importance in carbon storage, comparing their capacity to that of trees.
“These massive, long-lived animals store significant amounts of carbon in their bodies for 70 to 90 years, helping to mitigate climate change,” he stated.
Gilkes echoed these sentiments, adding, “Whales are essential for the health and productivity of marine ecosystems. They play a vital role in nutrient cycling and supporting rich biodiverse marine life.”
Despite the environmental concerns, the situation is more complex than it initially appears. According to Garcia, Antigua and Barbuda’s stance is not about initiating local whaling activities.
“There’s no plan for Antigua and Barbuda to start whaling. The conservation status of cetaceans in Antigua and Barbuda is not going to change,” Garcia clarified.
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between environmental conservation, international diplomacy, and economic development in small island nations. Antigua and Barbuda’s resolution is essentially a show of support for its ally Japan, which has a tradition of whale hunting. As US aid to the Caribbean has decreased, countries like Japan have stepped in, potentially influencing policy decisions.
Gilkes raised additional concerns about the health implications of whale meat consumption, citing studies showing high levels of mercury and other toxins. She also referenced a public opinion survey conducted by ABITPC, which found that an overwhelming majority of Antiguans opposed commercial whaling.
While not taking an activist stance, the EAG is increasing its involvement in cetacean research.
“We’re partnering with the Caribbean Cetacean Society to conduct population surveys and train local capacity in cetacean monitoring techniques,” Garcia revealed.
As the IWC meeting unfolds, the international community will be watching closely. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for global whaling policies, marine conservation efforts, and Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry.
The government is facing mounting pressure to reconcile its international relationships with its commitment to environmental protection and the wishes of its citizens.
The debate underscores the broader challenges faced by small island nations in balancing economic development, diplomatic ties, and environmental stewardship in an increasingly interconnected world.
