The Third Fisheries Ministerial Conference of the Plan Régional de Surveillance des Pêches (PRSP) took place in Seychelles from 25th to 28th February 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the institutionalization of the PRSP. Headed by Seychelles’ Minister Jean François Ferrari, the conference aimed to build on the recommendations from previous meetings and reinforce regional cooperation to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, while advancing sustainable fisheries management in the Southwest Indian Ocean (SWIO) region.
The PRSP, established in 2007, has been instrumental in tackling IUU fishing through regional collaboration. Its initiatives include joint fisheries surveillance, data sharing, and capacity building. Over the past 17 years, the PRSP has made notable progress in enhancing monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS) capacities, strengthening regional partnerships, and fostering collaboration among member states.
However, the increasing challenges have highlighted the need for sustainability and adaptation, making the 2025 conference crucial for securing the future of the PRSP as a key regional fisheries management mechanism.
Key themes discussed during the conference focused on the PRSP’s current state, the progress made since the 2017 recommendations, and the necessary steps for institutionalization. A significant portion of the discussions was dedicated to ensuring a sustainable financial framework for the PRSP and reinforcing its operational autonomy. Delegates explored innovative technologies such as vessel monitoring systems (VMS), satellite imagery, and electronic reporting systems to strengthen the fight against IUU fishing.
Additionally, working groups engaged in discussions on the institutionalization of the PRSP framework, addressing the need for a clear structure, budget, and financing mechanism for a Sub Regional Fisheries Monitoring, Control, and Observation Centre (FMCSOC). They emphasized the importance of a legal personality for the PRSP to facilitate the creation of the center and to help member states assess their capacity and feasibility to host the center. A comprehensive financial report on the current PRSP operations and the establishment of a transparent cost-sharing mechanism were also recommended.
The conference also focused on capacity building, with discussions centered on enhancing human and technical capacities at both national and regional levels. This included a focus on training, information exchange, joint patrols, and fostering stronger cooperation among member states.
The importance of integrating small-scale tuna and tuna-like coastal fisheries into regional frameworks was also emphasized. Given the role of small-scale fisheries in local economies and food security, discussions highlighted the need to strengthen monitoring, control, and surveillance mechanisms, especially in light of open-access challenges.
The event fostered high-level policy dialogue and established commitments from fisheries ministers and stakeholders, with an emphasis on supporting the PRSP’s goals and enhancing regional collaboration. The discussions on regional and international cooperation underscored the importance of avoiding duplication of efforts in combating IUU fishing and improving coordination among the various regional organizations.
As a recognition of dedication to the PRSP’s success in reducing IUU fishing, several long serving staff members were awarded trophies for their contributions. Honorees included Roddy Allisop, Marie Antoinette Saminadin, Tracey Pillay, Anil Julienne, Teffy Jean, Sharon Roselie, Julie Jean, Vincent Lucas, and Alex Tirant.
Expected outcomes from the conference included a new ministerial declaration, clear guidance on the institutionalization process, and a sustainable financial mechanism for the PRSP. This conference not only marked a critical milestone in the PRSP’s journey towards institutionalization but also provided a platform for member states to agree on strategic next steps, ensuring that the PRSP will continue to be a vital tool in combating IUU fishing and ensuring sustainable fisheries management in the SWIO region.
The PRSP’s success in reducing IUU fishing was acknowledged with the prestigious Stop IUU Fishing Award in 2023, further underscoring the importance of the PRSP as a model for regional cooperation and its potential to inspire other initiatives. The conference, preceded by the PRSP Steering Committee meeting and working group sessions, was supported by the ECOFISH Project and reinforced the PRSP’s role in strengthening inter-regional cooperation to fight IUU fishing and ensure the long-term sustainability of the region’s fisheries resources.
