Proactive Cetacean Conservation in the Midst of 'Data Deficiency': Progress of the Convention on Migratory Species Cetacean Agreement in the Pacific Islands Region

Abstract

The Pacific Islands Region is an expansive, tropical oceanic region containing 22 Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs). In general, the PICTs have limited land area, are geographically isolated, contain unique endemic ecosystems vulnerable to destruction or damage, and have rapid human population growth rates. PICTs place a high value on their marine resources for both food security and livelihoods, recognizing their relatively high marine biodiversity, as well as cultural and traditional significance. Various regional and sub-regional management frameworks of differing spatial and temporal scales, numerous levels of stakeholder engagement, and specific areas or topics of focus are in place to both protect (and in other cases utilize) marine resources across the Pacific Islands Region.