Iceland plans to submit a request to the International Whaling Commission (iwc), seeking permission to resume scientific whaling. This step could lead to a revival of whale hunting. Iceland had stopped the controversial activity in 1989 under international pressure. But ever since the country rejoined the iwc last October, it has been planning to recommence the same.
While commercial whaling would not start before 2006, the country could begin hunting for scientific purposes before that. The iwc requires detailed research plans to be submitted before it permits whale hunting whales for research purposes. The agency said Iceland's proposal would be discussed at its annual meeting in June.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.