EU Sanctions Faroe Islands Over Herring Fishing Dispute

The European Union (EU) has agreed to support sanctions against the Faroe Islands, a self-governed territory of Denmark, in an effort to curb its herring fishing activities. The measures, which include a possible import ban or closure of its ports to its boats, aim to protest the islands’ decision to triple the limit on herring fishing.

Background

The dispute began when the Faroe Islands unilaterally increased its existing quota for herring fishing by more than three times the allocations it would have received under EU policy earlier this year. This move was met with resistance from the European Union, which argues that such a decision would hurt the economy and violate the spirit of the UN Convention on the Law of the Seas.

EU Position

The EU has taken a firm stance on the issue, with EU Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki stating that given the gravity of the situation and lack of cooperation from the Faroese authorities, the EU had no option but to take all necessary steps to ensure a sustainable herring fishery managed jointly by all coastal states concerned. Scientists have called for a 26% cut in overall catches of herring, which the Faroe Islands shares with the EU, Russia, Norway, and Iceland.

Faroe Islands’ Position

The Faroe Islands argues that EU rules do not provide it with a sufficient share of the herring catch and that a higher quota is justified due to an increase in the number of herring in its waters. Prime Minister Kaj Leo Holm Johannesen accused the EU of attempting to force the Faroe Islands to undermine its national interests under threats of coercion, stating that this approach would actually obstruct cooperation necessary for reaching a multilateral agreement.

Possible Consequences

The sanctions could have significant economic consequences for the Faroe Islands and the wider region. The dispute highlights the ongoing tensions between the EU and the Faroe Islands over herring fishing quotas, with both sides refusing to budge on their positions. As the standoff continues, it remains to be seen how the sanctions will affect the economy of the Faroe Islands and the wider region.

Comparisons

The dispute has drawn comparisons with the “cod wars” of the 1950s and 1970s between Britain and Iceland, which were also over fishing rights. The current standoff is a reminder that fishing disputes can have significant economic and environmental implications for coastal communities and nations.

Timeline

• EU member states agree to support sanctions against the Faroe Islands
• Final endorsement expected from the European Commission over the coming weeks
• Possible import ban or closure of ports to Faroese boats