This CMM establishes a framework for the confidentiality, protection, and controlled dissemination of fisheries data submitted by Contracting Parties and cooperating entities. It classifies data into public and confidential categories, allowing limited release of aggregated catch, effort, and observer data under strict conditions that prevent vessel identification and require flag State consent, while designating sensitive data such as VMS and operational records as strictly confidential. The measure further sets out safeguards, including restricted access to authorised personnel, secure data storage and encryption, and obligations on data users to submit research plans, report outputs, and destroy datasets after use unless otherwise authorised. Implementation responsibilities lie primarily with the Secretariat, which must ensure compliance with these standards and report to the Meeting of the Parties.
2025-01-01