Despite their crucial role in collecting data for the economic activity of fishermen and for science, this work exposes them to considerable dangers. The deaths of fishing observers often concern boats with problematic practices such as illegal transshipment (passing boxes of fish from one boat to another at sea, without declaring them).
The story of Samuel Abayateye, a Ghanaian observer who disappeared at sea in October 2023, illustrates the seriousness of the situation. His body, found mutilated, has still not been officially identified despite DNA tests requested by the family. Other observers, like Emmanuel Essein, were victims of similar disappearances after denouncing illicit practices on board the boats.
Observers are often perceived by crews as intruders. In France, the observer program is experiencing difficulties, with today frequent refusals on the part of fishermen to accept these professionals on board. This rejection complicates the collection of data for stock management and the protection of marine species, particularly dolphins on the coasts of the Bay of Biscay.
Read the full survey
France
