Fisheries Crime

Our ocean ecosystems are under threat

The trafficking of vulnerable marine species is transnational and complex, often converging with a wide range of other crimes, from fraud and corruption to human trafficking. Marine species are particularly vulnerable to organised crime. It is a multi-billion-dollar illegal business, amounting to USD 10 – 23.5 billion per year. Transnational organised criminal networks are preying on endangered species, hampering efforts to establish sustainable fisheries, and seriously impacting ocean health and global resources.

These crimes exacerbate climate change, cause biodiversity loss, and deprive coastal fishing communities of livelihoods and food sources.

Removing species from their environment upsets the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems. From apex predators to sea cucumbers to kelp, all marine life plays a role in maintaining healthy oceans.

Vulnerable species focus

The challenges facing our marine species are huge, with many threats demanding urgent action. At the moment, the Wildlife Justice Commission is focusing on specific species where we have the potential to make the greatest impact.

How we fight the trafficking of marine species

The Wildlife Justice Commission works to disrupt and help dismantle criminal networks, encourage the growth of political will to combat these problems, and build tomorrow’s sustainable solutions. To protect vulnerable species from exploitation, we:

Help us close the net on criminal networks plundering the ocean

Donations made to the Wildlife Justice Commission are tax-deductible under Dutch law, as we have ANBI status. EU citizens can also make their contributions tax-deductible. See our Donate section for more details on how you can help us to fight transnational organised wildlife crime. Donating from the USA? Click here.