June 23, 2010 "We are deeply disappointed that the governments
present here, after more than 3 years of intense work, could not
reach a solution that will benefit whale conservation. In
particular, the lack of sufficient flexibility shown by Japan to
phase out its whaling in the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary
prevented a decision from being adopted. Continuation of the
impasse here may retain the whaling moratorium on paper, but
unregulated whaling outside of IWC control, by Japan, Norway,
and Iceland, will now be able to continue," Dr Susan Lieberman
of the Pew Environment Group said in a statement. Humpback whale
breaching in Alaska. Photo by: Rhett A. Butler. Analysis of
talks published 6/22/10: There are two ways forward on whaling
according to visions being put forward at the International
Whaling Commission this week. One way is to uphold the 24-year-
long ban on hunting and killing whales. While this road sends a
strong pro-conservation message, it also means that Japan,
Norway, and Iceland will continu