The EU Senegal Fisheries Agreement: A Comprehensive Guide

The European Union (EU) and Senegal have had a longstanding fisheries agreement that has evolved over the years to become one of the most comprehensive in the world. The agreement, which was first signed in 1980, allows European vessels to fish in Senegal’s waters and has been mutually beneficial for both parties.

The EU-Senegal fisheries agreement has gone through several updates, including the most recent one signed in 2014. This current agreement is set to expire in November 2021, but negotiations for a new deal are underway.

Here’s everything you need to know about the EU Senegal Fisheries Agreement:

1. The agreement ensures sustainable fisheries practices.

One of the key elements of the agreement is ensuring sustainable fishing practices. The EU and Senegal work together to monitor and manage fish stocks to prevent overfishing. This includes setting limits on the number of fish that can be caught, regulating fishing gear, and prohibiting fishing in certain areas.

2. The agreement provides economic benefits for Senegal.

Senegal is one of the poorest countries in West Africa, and the fishing industry is a vital source of income for many people. The EU Senegal Fisheries Agreement allows Senegal to earn revenue from issuing licenses to EU vessels to fish in its waters. This revenue is used to support the development of the fishing industry, including improving infrastructure and security.

3. The agreement includes measures to combat illegal fishing.

Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing is a major problem in Africa and around the world. The EU Senegal Fisheries Agreement includes measures to combat IUU fishing, including monitoring and surveillance of fishing vessels and punishing those who violate fishing regulations.

4. The agreement has faced criticism.

Despite the benefits of the EU Senegal Fisheries Agreement, it has faced criticism from some quarters. Environmental groups have raised concerns about the impact of industrial fishing on the marine ecosystem and the livelihoods of artisanal fishermen. Some have also argued that the agreement does not provide enough revenue for Senegal and that it is skewed in favor of the EU.

5. Negotiations for a new agreement are underway.

The current EU Senegal Fisheries Agreement is set to expire in November 2021, and negotiations for a new deal have begun. The new agreement is expected to address some of the criticisms of the current one, with a focus on improving environmental sustainability, increasing revenue for Senegal, and ensuring fairer terms for both parties.

In conclusion, the EU Senegal Fisheries Agreement is an important example of international cooperation in the management of natural resources. While it has faced some criticisms, it has nonetheless been successful in ensuring sustainable fishing practices, providing economic benefits for Senegal, and combatting illegal fishing. The ongoing negotiations for a new agreement provide an opportunity to build on these successes and address some of the challenges of the current one.