Global Fishing Watch IUU Fishing Risk Insight v1 2012-2025

The Global Fishing Watch Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing Risk Insights dataset provides computed insights per vessel at an annual scale (from January to December). The dataset and associated documentation can be found here We have also developed a Fact Sheet that outlines the background research that contributed to the development of the IUU fishing risk insights included in this dataset. Finally, the list of citations used to develop the indicators can be found here. The IUU fishing risk insights have been identified through a literature review and consultation with experts and practitioners who support maritime authorities with fisheries intelligence. The 11 insights included in this dataset are observable behaviors we have found to be associated with an increased risk of IUU fishing, and that can be calculated using publicly available datasets. They are either derived from: Automatic Identification System (AIS) data, Reported cases of IUU fishing (from Regional Fisheries Management Organization (RFMO) IUU vessel lists) or Forced labor information drawn from an internally maintained list of reported forced labor vessels that have been matched to AIS. The dataset also includes vessel identity fields, including Maritime Mobile Service Identities (MMSI), IMO number, callsign, flag, and shipname from both AIS and registry sources. Vessel identity is not an IUU risk insight, rather the information may be used to contextualize results and filter for vessels or fleets of interest. The plan is to calculate and update the dataset every 12 months. IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER The outputs of this dataset are not designed to make definitive determinations of IUU fishing or to replace legal, investigative, or judicial processes. Rather, this dataset aims to serve as an early-warning and decision-support tool that must be combined with additional evidence, regulatory and geographic knowledge, and expert judgement before reaching any conclusions. Where appropriate, validation of risk signals may be supported through inspections, enforcement records, or other independent verification mechanisms. Please read more details about the data caveats on our website.