The application of administrative sanctions in the fight against IUU fishing: An assessment of Spanish practice

[Abstract]: In the last decade, Spain has been notable for large administrative sanctions imposed on its nationals and operators implicated in illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities. This paper examines, first, the practice of the Spanish authorities under the administrative sanction regime for IUU fishing activities conducted by Spanish nationals and operators. Second, an assessment of the legal framework under which the Spanish authorities have been established such administrative sanctions will be examined.