IWC-70 meeting underway in Hobart to discuss whale conservation
Delegates from 89 member governments gathered in Hobart, Tasmania for the 70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC-70), spanning late September into early October 2026. The conference focuses on whale conservation, population assessments, and measures to address cetacean threats such as ship strikes and habitat loss. The gathering also marks the 80th anniversary of the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, under which the IWC operates. Participants review scientific data, conservation programmes, and proposals for enhanced international cooperation on whale protection. The discussions reflect ongoing debates about whaling allowances and maritime governance in shared oceans.
Event: IWC-70 in Hobart, 27 Sept – 2 Oct 2026
Delegates from 89 member governments
Focus: whale conservation, population data, threats to cetaceans
80th anniversary of the ICRW as a context
Debates on whaling allowances and maritime governance