International Petition Urges Maldives to Maintain Shark Fishing Ban
Editors of Australia’s Ocean Geographic magazine have launched an online petition in response to the Maldives government’s plan to permit tiger shark fishing from 1 November.
Sharks have been protected in Maldivian waters since 2010, following a ban introduced under former President Mohamed Nasheed.
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The current administration, led by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, has indicated intentions to reverse this policy. During a recent visit to HDh. Kulhudhuffushi, the President ,announced that shark fishing, including gulper sharks, would be allowed soon.
The petition appeals directly to President Muizzu to reconsider the decision and has received support from prominent marine conservationists and ocean advocates, including Dr. Sylvia Earle, Dr. Alex Mustard, David Doubilet, Jennifer Hayes, and Howard and Michelle Hall. Former President Nasheed has also publicly endorsed the initiative.
Supporters of the petition emphasise that maintaining the ban is essential not only for protecting marine ecosystems but also for preserving the Maldives’ international credibility on climate and environmental issues. They warn that lifting the ban could damage fragile ocean habitats and harm the country’s tourism industry, particularly activities such as shark diving that rely on the nation’s rich underwater biodiversity.
President Muizzu, however, has defended the policy, describing it as an important opportunity for those dependent on fishing for their livelihoods. He stated that veteran fishermen have observed a significant increase in shark populations and are calling for regulated fishing, citing similar demands made under previous administrations.
Despite these arguments, the policy has drawn criticism from environmental organisations and segments of the local tourism sector, who contend that the long-term ecological and economic costs outweigh short-term benefits.
Petition link: https://www.change.org/p/petition-to-the-president-of-maldives-to-continue-the-ban-on-fishing-of-all-shark-species
