Per Erik Bergh, Secretary
Per Erik was one of the founding members of Stop Illegal Fishing and heads up the Stop Illegal Fishing Investigative Unit.
Per Erik Bergh has for over 30 years been working globally in the maritime and fisheries fields. His main passion is fighting illegal fishing and assisting operational MCS staff to bring perpetrators to justice. He achieves this through his extensive network that has been built from his initial years in the Norwegian coastguard, global travel and engagement in international fishery and maritime affairs and from over two decades living and working in Africa.
Per Erik has worked in over 40 countries around the world in Africa, Asia, Europe and America where he’s been involved in the development of the MCS element of fishery management plans, working in aspects ranging from training inspectors to supporting regional and international negotiations of fisheries instruments.
‘Through our work with Stop Illegal Fishing we have uncovered the extent of the illegalities that are taking place in our oceans every day. By working in partnership with coastal, market, flag and port States as well as NGOs and the international community we can see what needs to change and we are making progress.’
In 2016 Per Erik was awarded The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit (Knight First Class) in recognition of his outstanding service in the interests of Norway. On presenting the award Her Excellency, Ambassador Trine Skymoen, the Norwegian Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa, Botswana and Madagascar emphasized Per Erik’s longstanding contributions as the Honorary Norwegian Consul General to Botswana. The Royal Order of Merit, founded by H.M. King Olav V in 1985, is awarded to foreigners, Norwegian citizens living overseas and members of the Norwegian or foreign diplomatic services for outstanding service in the interests of Norway.
The Ambassador also underlined Per Erik’s key role in the field of IUU fishing and fisheries crime, in particular through the establishment of the not for profit organisation Stop Illegal Fishing and the FISH-i Africa Task Force.
“Norway as a fishing nation recognizes the importance of sustainable and well managed fisheries worldwide. We have long assisted developing countries tackle the complex practical challenges involved in deterring and preventing illegal fishing. Stop Illegal Fishing has provided an innovative approach as well as real hands on support and advice where it is needed most. The huge contribution of Per Erik and his colleagues to fighting IUU is recognized and valued by Norway.”