Bonn, 12 December 2024 – This week, ASCOBANS signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). This is a great step in in fostering stronger collaboration dedicated to the protection of small cetaceans.

The MOU establishes a framework for cooperation and facilitates collaboration between ASCOBANS and ICES in areas of mutual interest, with an initial term of five years.

International cooperation between countries and institutions, including sharing of data and information, is a cornerstone of the ASCOBANS Agreement in order to achieve and maintain a favourable conservation status for small cetaceans.

This strategic partnership outlines that ASCOBANS and ICES will cooperate on several key areas of common interest. In the field of cetacean conservation and fisheries scientific research, both organizations will maintain consultation and regular contact. Additionally, they will actively exchange information about current and planned activities, such as meetings and projects. This also includes increased cooperation in the field of data and information management related to the conservation of cetaceans. Cooperation will be further improved by engaging in joint activities such as workshops and working groups. Any specific activities, projects and programs may be detailed in future separate agreements.

ICES is an intergovernmental marine science organization and has a mission to advance and share scientific understanding of marine ecosystems and the services they provide. Their aim is to use this knowledge to generate state-of-the-art advice for meeting conservation, management, and sustainability goals. They also seek to establish and maintain working arrangements with other international organizations with related objectives.