By Kisean Joseph
In a surprising turn of events at the recent International Whaling Commission (IWC) meeting in Lima, Peru, Antigua and Barbuda withdrew its controversial resolution calling for the resumption of commercial whaling, however, faced with significant opposition and unable to achieve consensus, the country opted to withdraw the proposal.
During the meeting, Commissioner Daven Joseph delivered an impassioned speech, arguing that the organisation had no right to dictate what countries should or should not eat.
Joseph labelled the IWC’s stance as “colonial” and demanded that countries interested in commercial whaling be allowed to do so without hindrance. However, this position has been met with significant international and local pushback.
On Sunday’s Big Issues programme, environmental experts and local conservationists strongly opposed Antigua Barbuda’s pro-whaling stance.
Eli Fuller, a prominent local environmentalist, expressed concern over the country’s alignment with Japan’s whaling interests, explained that for nearly four decades, Japan has influenced Antigua and Barbuda’s vote on international fisheries policies through gifts, such as constructing fisheries plants.
Fuller further emphasised that Antigua and Barbuda have no historical connection to whaling and that the current stance does not represent the interests or values of the local population. He pointed out the potential economic risks, stating: “If we lost 5 percent of our tourism because of a boycott or because of just bad publicity, this economically would hurt our people.”
Miguel Garcia, coordinator of the Antigua Marine Conservation Program at the Environmental Awareness Group (EAG), highlighted the ecological importance of whales.
He explained the concept of the “whale pump” where whales play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and supporting marine ecosystems. Garcia stressed that any impact on whale populations could have far-reaching consequences for the entire marine food chain, potentially affecting valuable fish species and local fisheries.
Both experts highlighted that Antigua and Barbuda’s domestic laws protect all cetaceans, making it illegal for local fishers to hunt whales even if the international ban was lifted. They argued that pushing for commercial whaling would primarily benefit large international players rather than local communities.
Fuller pointed out the lack of effective management for other important marine species, such as conch and lobster, and questioned the government’s commitment to sustainable fisheries practices.
Many Antiguans and Barbudans have taken to social media to express their disagreement with the government’s position, stating that it does not represent their views or interests.
Despite the backlash, Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation at the IWC meeting ultimately withdrew the resolution. However, Commissioner Joseph indicated that they would continue to work on the proposal with interested governments and NGOs, suggesting that the issue may resurface at future meetings.
This comes at a time when Antigua and Barbuda, like many small island developing states, is actively calling for greater international action on climate change. Critics argue that advocating for whale hunting undermines the country’s position on environmental issues and could damage its reputation on the global stage.
Local environmental organisations like the EAG are emphasising the importance of public education and engagement in conservation efforts. They are calling on citizens to become more involved in protecting the country’s marine resources, including endangered species like sea turtles.
The whaling controversy has highlighted the complex interplay between international politics, economic interests, and environmental conservation. It has also underscored the power of informed journalism and public opinion in shaping national policy.
