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Conference Papers

Vol. 32 No. 1 (2026)

Balancing national legal protections of fisheries data and UNCLOS obligations in the age of AI

  • Eva van Heukelom
Submitted
June 11, 2026
Published
2026-06-12

Abstract

Fisheries are an essential ocean industry, generating billions annually and supporting the livelihoods of millions worldwide. Effective  management depends on governments’ ability to collect and analyse fisheries data, including vessel movements, catch, and ownership information. This article examines the international legal frameworks that mandate such data collection, alongside national legal protections that may restrict data sharing beyond public authorities. It considers whether these limitations are justified, given the inherently transboundary nature of fisheries and the need for cross-border data exchange, particularly in efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.