On 15 July 2026, the EU Council's Working Party on International Environment Issues (Whaling) will hold an informal videoconference to prepare for the 70th International Whaling Commission meeting (IWC 70) scheduled for 28 September – 2 October 2026 in Hobart, Australia. The meeting, announced in a notice of meeting and provisional agenda published on 9 July 2026, will focus on the Irish Presidency's roadmap and the EU's negotiating position.
The agenda includes a presentation from the European Commission on a proposed Council Decision (document 11490/26 + ADD 1) that would establish the EU's position for the next three IWC meetings, including inter-sessional meetings. The Presidency will provide information on the roadmap for its work and a state of play on preparations for IWC 70, which also marks the 80th anniversary of the IWC. A Bureau member will report on recent developments, and member states will discuss resolution proposals.
The meeting is a preparatory step for EU coordination ahead of IWC 70, where the EU will seek to advance its position on whaling regulation. The Council Decision proposal, once adopted, will bind EU member states in their voting and statements at the IWC. The informal videoconference allows for early discussion among experts before formal adoption procedures.
EU member states will need to align their national positions with the forthcoming Council Decision, which may affect their flexibility in negotiations. The whaling industry and conservation groups will be indirectly impacted by the EU's stance, as the EU is a key bloc in the IWC. The European Commission's proposal will shape the EU's long-term approach to whaling, balancing conservation and sustainable use. The Irish Presidency's roadmap will determine the pace of internal EU coordination.