Arctic Fisheries Conflict Case Study

As climate change alters the Arctic's environment and geopolitical stability, WWF's new report offers a roadmap to conservation and security.

In the coming years, the Arctic Region is likely to see growing fisheries conflict as climate change drives fish stocks to move in, out of, and within the region. That assessment is underpinned by our analysis of historical data, from 2000–2023, which shows fisheries conflict was most commonly caused by disputed access to fishing grounds, perceived or actual changes to the health of fish stocks, and broader changes in the marine environment.

The analysis is part of a global initiative – Oceans Futures – aimed at identifying, understanding, and preventing future conflicts over fisheries resulting from climate change-driven fish migration, which will have profound impacts on nature, people, and global stability.

Link to full report: https://www.oceansfutures.org/arctic