Iceland Extends Whaling Permits Through 2029 Despite Public Opposition
The Icelandic government has approved quotas for fin and minke whale hunting, a practice opposed by a majority of citizens and criticized by environmental groups.
- Iceland's government has authorized annual quotas to hunt 209 fin whales and 217 minke whales per season until 2029, despite a 1986 global moratorium on commercial whaling.
- A 2023 survey revealed that 51% of Icelanders oppose whaling, with declining domestic demand for whale meat contributing to the shift in public opinion.
- Environmental groups have condemned the decision, citing concerns over animal welfare, climate impacts, and non-compliance with international conservation standards.
- The practice was briefly suspended in 2023 after investigations found that explosive harpoons caused prolonged suffering, leading to stricter regulations and monitoring of hunting methods.
- Iceland's economy has increasingly relied on whale-watching tourism, raising questions about the sustainability and ethics of continuing commercial whaling.
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