ACS Monterey Bay Program for April 2007

Laggard or Leviathan?
The Future of the International Whaling Commission

From feeding to breeding, whales often travel through different aquatic jurisdictions. With such international travelers the need for international oversight or regulation is apparent. Thus, we have the International Whaling Commission ("IWC").

Now, many whale-related issues are heating up around the world and the need for an effective IWC is as important as ever. Our presentation this evening will provide the insider's perspective about what the future holds for the IWC.

Dr. Burns is Senior Fellow, Center for Global Law & Policy, Santa Clara University School of Law. In addition to his dissertation: "The Agreement on Conservation of Cetaceans of the Black and Mediterranean Seas" he has a broad background in International Matters including Environmental Law, Ocean and Coastal Law, Marine Environmental Law, Sustainable Development, and the emerging challenge of climate change.

Dr. Burns also has a Monterey connection. He served as an Associate Professor from 2000 to 2004 at the Monterey Institute of International Studies and taught classes on Climate Change and Marine Regimes and the Protection of Wildlife.

Dr. Burns' perspective also has been shaped through his many professional experiences including those as Editor-in Chief, Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy, a position he has held since 1997, and as Co-Chair of the International Environmental Law Group of the American Society of International Law, a position he has held since 2003.

Please join us for this interesting and timely presentation about the future of the IWC especially during these challenging times for several whale species around the world.

Related web pages:

• International Whaling Commission
• Dr. Burns' Bio at Santa Clara University School of Law
• Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy

• Back to list of previous meetings.