Ocean Geographic launches petition to uphold the ban on shark fishing in Maldives

The editors of Ocean Geographic magazine in Australia have initiated an online petition following the Maldives government's choice to allow the fishing of tiger sharks beginning on November 1, 2026.

Sharks have been safeguarded in Maldivian waters since 2010, due to a significant ban established during the tenure of former President Mohamed Nasheed.

Nonetheless, the present government led by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has indicated intentions to overturn this choice. While visiting HDh recently. In Kulhudhuffushi, the President informed residents that next year, shark fishing aimed at gulper sharks would be permitted.

The petition seeks to directly urge President Muizzu to reassess the decision in protest. It has received backing from various well-known marine conservationists and ocean advocates, such as Dr. Sylvia Earle, Dr. Alex Mustard, David Doubilet, Jennifer Hayes, and Howard and Michelle Hall. Ex-President Nasheed has also openly supported the petition.

Alongside safeguarding the marine ecosystem, the petition contends that maintaining the prohibition on shark fishing is crucial for upholding the Maldives’ credibility and leadership regarding climate matters. It cautions that removing the ban could jeopardize delicate ocean ecosystems and damage the nation's tourism sector, especially activities like shark diving that attract global visitors and depend on the Maldives' abundant marine biodiversity.President Muizzu, nevertheless, has resisted the criticism. He characterized the choice as a significant chance for individuals dependent on fishing for their income, pointing out that comparable requests had been voiced in earlier administrations. The President states that numerous experienced fishermen feel shark populations have increased considerably and are requesting government intervention.

However, the decision has faced backlash from both ecological groups and parts of the local tourism sector. Numerous people contend that the lasting environmental and financial expenses surpass any immediate benefits.

Shark Guardian, a marine conservation organization located in the UK, has released a statement calling on the Maldives to uphold its position as a worldwide leader in shark conservation.

In a letter to President Muizzu, the organization emphasized that sustainably regulating shark fishing or restricting catches to certain species is not feasible. When the prohibition is removed, the danger of overfishing and ecological failure becomes imminent.

The group emphasized the crucial function sharks serve in preserving the well-being of coral reef ecosystems, which are essential for both tourism and fisheries in the Maldives. They urged the government to reevaluate the broader environmental and economic consequences of the suggested policy.