70th Meeting of the International Whaling Commission Scientific Committee concludes in Bled

The IWC is a global organisation responsible for the conservation and management of whales and dolphins. Through its work, the IWC seeks to reduce threats affecting cetaceans in their habitats, such as underwater noise, pollution and debris. The Scientific Committee prepares expert proposals and recommendations for the IWC and assesses the size and genetic diversity of global whale and dolphin populations. The Committee also provides expert advice on the appropriateness of quotas for specific types of whaling and addresses the conservation of whales and dolphins, as well as whale sightings and numerous environmental issues. In doing so, the Committee provides scientific support to the IWC Conservation Committee. In recent years, the main topics have been reducing the impact of underwater noise and pollution (including plastic) on whales and dolphins, reducing bycatch and entanglement in fishing nets and designating protected areas for these animals.

The meeting in Bled brought together 230 participants from over 30 countries, primarily scientists and government representatives, as well as an expert from the Slovenian Marine Mammal Society Morigenos. During the meeting, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Spatial Planning and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs hosted a reception for participants. On this occasion, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Spatial Planning presented Slovenia’s efforts to conserve the most endangered species and their habitats. The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs highlighted the importance of science diplomacy, water diplomacy, economic diplomacy and cultural diplomacy, as well as international cooperation on environmental issues affecting both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Particular emphasis was placed on Slovenia’s efforts to promote sustainable water management through its Presidency of the UNECE Water Convention for the 2024–2027 term.

The IWC comprises 89 countries worldwide. Slovenia ratified the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling in 2006 and has been a member of the Commission ever since.

Further information about the Scientific Committee and the event is available here (in English).

Further information about the International Whaling Commission is available here (in English).