Consultation on the Marine Resources Enforcement Strategy

In 2025, the Government of Bermuda reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding our ocean through stronger enforcement of marine laws and better protection of the resources that support our people and economy. 

The Marine Resources Enforcement Strategy has been developed by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), in close collaboration with the national enforcement officials, regional partners, and community stakeholders. It provides a modern, adaptive framework to strengthen enforcement, improve compliance, and ensure Bermuda’s marine resources are managed responsibly for future generations. 

For centuries, Bermuda’s maritime space has been central to livelihoods, identity, and prosperity. Yet today, our ocean faces growing pressures from illegal and unregulated fishing to habitat degradation and the effects of climate change. The Strategy addresses these challenges by setting out a coordinated plan to: 

• Strengthen protection of Bermuda’s marine resources through effective laws and enforcement; 
• Build a skilled, well-equipped, and collaborative enforcement workforce; 
• Improve use of modern tools and technologies for monitoring and surveillance; 
• Deepen partnerships with local, regional, and international agencies; and 
• Promote public awareness and voluntary compliance across the community. 

This Strategy builds upon years of progress and consultation from 2021 to 2025, aligning with regional and international frameworks such as the Caribbean Maritime Security Strategy (CMSS), United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA). It is a forward-looking, adaptive plan designed to evolve alongside emerging maritime challenges. 

This public consultation is a call to action to share your experiences, ideas, and feedback on the Marine Resources Enforcement Strategy. Your input will help ensure Bermuda’s approach to maritime enforcement is effective, fair, and supported by the community, protecting our shared ocean heritage and growing our economy and quality of life for the generations to come.