EU ends Senegal fisheries deal amid illegal fishing dispute

SENEGAL – The European Union (EU) has announced that it will suspend its fisheries agreement with Senegal, a decision stemming from concerns over illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the West African nation. 

The deal expires on November 17, 2024, has been in place since 2019 and was valued at €8.5 million (US$9.1 million) over five years.  

Jean-Marc Pisani, the EU ambassador to Senegal, confirmed the suspension on November 12, attributing it to Senegal’s insufficient efforts to tackle IUU fishing. 

The European Commission had flagged Senegal earlier this year as a “non-cooperating country,” citing inadequate monitoring of its waters and ineffective regulatory measures.  

Despite the termination, the EU emphasised its willingness to continue collaborating with Senegal to improve fishery control systems and traceability. 

Discussions between the two parties are ongoing to resolve the issues surrounding illegal fishing.  

Fishing is a cornerstone of Senegal’s economy, supporting 600,000 livelihoods, yet the sector faces growing challenges. 

Reliant on traditional methods, local fishermen frequently blame foreign industrial vessels for dwindling fish stocks. Critics argue that agreements like the EU deal have exacerbated overfishing and impoverished local communities.  

The controversy has gained political momentum under President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, elected in March 2024, who has vowed to ensure natural resources benefit Senegalese citizens. 

In May, Faye called for an audit of the fishing sector, sparking debates over the fairness of international agreements.  

The Senegalese government has dismissed claims that the EU unilaterally decided not to renew the agreement. 

Fisheries Minister Fatou Diouf and Higher Education Minister Abdourahmane Diouf have stated that Senegal initiated the move to halt agreements that disadvantage local fishermen.  

“For years, we’ve seen agreements that impoverish our people,” Abdourahmane Diouf said during a rally. “This is a stand for our nation’s sovereignty and the welfare of our communities.”  

As the deal lapses, 18 European vessels, primarily Spanish and French, will leave Senegalese waters, ceasing their financial contributions. 

While the EU maintains that these vessels account for less than 1% of Senegal’s total fish catches, the broader implications on the country’s economy and environment remain a point of contention.  

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