Webinar On-Demand: Why Are Modern Pirates Still Ruling Our Seas?

This conversation was originally aired by The Conversation Indonesia on October 30, 2025. 

This dialogue seeks to uncover the mystery behind the so-called “dark ships” engaged in illegal fishing across multiple countries. Field investigations conducted by Pulitzer Center journalists have exposed the devastating consequences of these illicit activities, from the destruction of marine ecosystems to the erosion of livelihoods in coastal communities. 

Several interconnected dimensions also shape the phenomenon of illegal fishing: Economic inequalities perpetuate this vicious cycle, enabling illegal operations to persist despite repeated enforcement efforts. At the same time, the ecological toll continues to rise, pushing marine ecosystems to the brink of collapse. The social consequences are equally alarming; coastal communities grow increasingly vulnerable as their sources of livelihood diminish, yet lasting solutions remain elusive.

This session highlights the complexity and intersectionality of illegal fishing by bringing together journalists and academics in a shared dialogue.

The session features two Pulitzer Center journalists who share their field reporting on the pressing issue of illegal fishing and its wider implications.

Abdus Somad, Pulitzer Center Ocean Reporting Network Fellow speaks about his yearlong project, The Dark Side of the Natuna and Arafura Seas. Suzanne Paxton and Lizette Labuschagne, both Pulitzer Center grantees, covered how economic struggles in South Africa are exacerbating efforts to preserve marine life along the country's coast for their project, Unseen Destruction of South Africa's Marine Protected Areas.

Also, joining us in the discussion:

Asmiati A Malik, Ph. D., Adjunct Assistant Professor at Universitas Bakrie
Anggi M. Lubis, Chief Editor/Content Director at The Conversation Indonesia as moderator

Conversation Corner is a regular public discussion designed to bridge communication between TCID’s Scientist Network and the public on various emerging critical issues. This initiative aims to create a space for academics and researchers to engage in dialogue and enrich public understanding of current scientific topics.

In collaboration with the Pulitzer Center, this edition of Conversation Corner brings together field investigations by journalists and scientific research by scholars, fostering an interdisciplinary dialogue on pressing environmental issues.