Southern Ocean Whaling: Is there a need for a new treaty?

Abstract

This project explores Southern Ocean whaling and the possible desirability Of a new treaty. This project is a qualitative investigation. The history Of Southern Ocean whaling is explored. As part Of this history, the International Whaling Committee (IWC) and the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (ICRW) are also examined. Several loopholes within the Convention are identified and discussed, and these include open membership, an objections procedure, enforcement issues, and provisions made. The strength of public opinion is identified and so too are cultural belief systems. Key decisions made by the IWC are discussed such as the moratorium, the Revised Management Procedure and the establishment Of sanctuaries. There are a number Of International laws that can be related to whaling in the Southern Ocean, some specifically and others in a more general way. These are identified and discussed. It appears there are several options that could be employed to manage whaling in the Southern Ocean as well as continuing with the status quo. A number of suggestions are made as to how best Southern Ocean whaling could be managed and who should manage it. This project explores Southern Ocean whaling and the possible desirability Of a new treaty. This project is a qualitative investigation. The history Of Southern Ocean whaling is explored. As part Of this history, the International Whaling Committee (IWC) and the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (ICRW) are also examined. Several loopholes within the Convention are identified and discussed, and these include open membership, an objections procedure, enforcement issues, and provisions made. The strength of public opinion is identified and so too are cultural belief systems. Key decisions made by the IWC are discussed such as the moratorium, the Revised Management Procedure and the establishment Of sanctuaries. There are a number Of International laws that can be related to whaling in the Southern Ocean, some specifically and others in a more general way. These are identified and discussed. It appears there are several options that could be employed to manage whaling in the Southern Ocean as well as continuing with the status quo. A number of suggestions are made as to how best Southern Ocean whaling could be managed and who should manage it.