Large foreign fishing fleets off the coast of Ecuador and neighboring states cause long-term environmental damage and threaten the economy and food supply. In September 2020, the public affairs section at Embassy Quito launched a long-term social media campaign to restart conversations among the Ecuadorian people, civil society, and the government of Ecuador regarding the deleterious effects of illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing (IUU). Ambassador Michael Fitzpatrick (third from left) led a beach cleanup to kick off this ongoing effort. Post’s social media strategy raises awareness of U.S. government assistance and support for local and regional action to combat IUU. The ongoing campaign sparked public conversation, forcing foreign fleet sponsors to respond to claims of environmental damage.
Photo by Tristana Santos
