Blog: EU Stops Support For Eco-Friendly Fishing - Reason Is Silly

In the Maldives fishing is done with pole and line. Nets that scoop out the whole livestock are not permitted and never practiced in the Maldives. The commercial gain and profitability of nets are immense and Maldives is an economy fighting for survival with provision of the most basics to its citizens. Yet, Maldives sought sustainable fishery more important than commercial gain. Greenpeace outlines top 6 reasons to choose pole and line.



As Maldives observe sustainable ways of fishery the European Union (EU) allowed import of Maldives tuna without an import duty. This was an encouragement, for both Maldives and the rest of the world to follow sustainability. But, recently EU has decided to stop that privilege by end of 2013. The reason for this sanction is that Maldives do not allow practice of multiple religions.

Maldives is a 100% muslim country. Despite surprising level of tourism growth and openness in the communities the locals still follow Islam as region. It goes side by side. Consumption of alcohol not being allowed in Islam, its possession or sale is prohibited in the local islands. Alcohol is widely available in all resorts and liveboards, consumption goes with excellent service. You are required to dress modestly in local islands. Whereas in resorts, you are in bikini while sunbathing on the beach. Tourism being the lifeblood of the economy the tourists are well respected. A country that is known as paradise on earth is one of the safest and peaceful countries in the world. But, introduction of multi-party democracy in 2008 shook the calm communities and political dynamics led to violent protests and confrontations within the local communities. Violence did not extend to tourism and it was merely not affected by the uprisings. A clear majority of Maldivians support democracy while the whole country remain in Islamic faith. Recently there was a speculation that half a dozen people were convinced of other religions. But, the 99.99% of the population do not want to allow conflicting religious systems and compromise the existing peaceful atmosphere. It would hurt the small community of this 300,000 people.

Introduction of democracy was a bumpy road. But, its success and achievement is highly remarkable. Now, Maldives could be the best example among the newly introduced democracies in the world. Still the political climate is fragile. But, it is slowly becoming stable and more matured. Many international bodies and governments of various countries supported the Maldives in its democratization.

Impact of climate change is causing the world to observer severe and catastrophic disasters across the globe. At this time, following and encouraging co-friendly mechanisms should be a priority, not only for the sake of the low lying islands of Maldives but also to all other nationals. So far, Maldives has been an example of eco-friendly leadership. It has been an encouragement for the rest of the world. But, for the European Union, the smaller issue of speculated religious freedom for half a dozen or less people has become more important and significant than the global environmental crisis.

2 years back, President Mohamed Nasheed of Maldives, held an underwater cabinet meeting. Same year, a television advertisement for an environment campaign showed president, in his office attire, standing in the lagoon with water reaching his knees. It depicted as if the rising sea level reached his office desk.

Environment friendly fishing should not be ignored unappreciated. It has to be recognized and encouraged to be followed by other countries too. Sustainability is important for the nations. Please share this on facebook to let others know and rise global awareness.



Some people are scared of sharks but not humans
Locations of Kandhufathi - Tuna Fishing Points Across Maldives
Blog: EU Stops Support For Eco-Friendly Fishing - Reason Is Silly