2. March 2026

International Whaling Commission Grants Observer Status to Hard To Port

We are proud to announce that Hard To Port – Marine Conservation has been accredited with NGO Observer Status at future meetings of the International Whaling Commission (IWC).

This acknowledgment marks an important milestone in the continued development of our non-profit organisation and recognises more than a decade of dedicated work in marine conservation. We are sincerely grateful to the Commission and its Secretariat for the opportunity to participate in this vital biennial forum.

As outlined in our application:

“The International Whaling Commission provides a central forum for global discussion on the future of whaling and wider cetacean conservation issues. Over the years, the Commission has benefited from the valuable input and perspectives of third-sector initiatives working locally and internationally to advance whale conservation efforts.

Over the past twelve years, our organisation has demonstrated that we can contribute constructively to these discussions by providing accurate, evidence-based information, fostering public engagement, promoting transparency, and highlighting ethical and welfare considerations that complement scientific and policy perspectives.”

Observer status at the IWC will enable us to engage directly in the international conversations shaping the future of whale and cetacean protection. We look forward to contributing meaningfully, collaborating with partners, and building strong, productive relationships at future Commission meetings.

The next biennial meeting of the IWC will take place from 27 September to 2 October 2026 in Hobart, Australia.

To learn more about the work and history of the International Whaling Commission, please visit the IWC website.

If you would like to support Hard To Port’s participation at future Commission meetings, please consider making a manageable donation to our non-profit organisation.

Photo credit: © Boris Niehaus | Hard To Port