Tag #Clientearth

How does the alleged use of AIS deactivation by Spanish fishing vessels in West African waters impact regional economies and food security?

The lawsuit highlights the use of Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), mandatory for vessels over 15 meters. Global Fishing Watch data revealed several Spanish vessels deactivated their AIS for extended periods (2020-2023), with one reportedly off for over a year. This lack of transparency, according to the NGOs, could be linked to fraud and undermines the economies and food security of West African nations.