Scientists’ Report: Japanese Whale Research Makes Major Contribution to International Whaling Commission

Monaco, 20 October 1997: The Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission has released the long awaited conclusions of its Working Group on Antarctic Minke Whale Research; scientists agree that Japan’s work in the Southern Ocean is a major contribution to knowledge of Antarctic minke whale biology, and has the potential to improve the basis for future management of those whales. 

The report indicates firm scientific support for the relevance and worth of Japan’s research on minke whale numbers, diet, migration patterns, stock identity, health, and pollution loads, as well as specifics on their role in a relatively clean ecosystem. 

Long time observers of the IWC process recognize that the Working Group Report thoroughly refutes previous anti-whaling groups’ claims that Japan’s Antarctic Research Program was merely an excuse to conduct commercial whaling behind a façade of scientific activity. Indeed, the Report noted that genetic information derived from the research would be useful in devising an improved version of the Commission’s Revised Management Procedure. In addition, the Report found the Japanese data on minke whale population structure and the age range of reproductive animals "valuable", as were data on whale feeding habits. None of this information could have been derived through non-lethal research methods. 

The Report noted that the research is at a halfway point, that its continuation should result in improved understanding of the status of minke whales in the Antarctic, and that final results of Japan’s research program should have the potential to improve the management of minke whales in the southern hemisphere.