Russian Federation formally exits ICES after suspension, ending membership in December 2025 while scientific work continues unchanged
Membership Ends Following Formal Withdrawal Notice
The Russian Federation has formally ceased to be a member of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), with its membership ending on 9 December 2025 following a withdrawal notice submitted a year earlier.
Under Article 17 of the ICES Convention, a Contracting Party may withdraw by providing written notice to Denmark, which hosts the organisation. The Danish Government received such notification from the Russian Federation on 9 December 2024, triggering a one-year notice period and bringing Russia’s membership to an official close on 9 December this year.
Background To Russia’s Suspension From ICES
The departure follows a prolonged suspension of Russian participation in ICES activities. In March 2022, the ICES Council announced a temporary suspension of all Russian involvement, effective from 30 March 2022.
Since that point, Russia has taken no part in ICES working groups, scientific assessments or advisory processes. ICES confirmed that it will continue to operate in the same manner as during the suspension period, with no change to existing arrangements following Russia’s formal withdrawal.
Legal And Practical Implications For ICES
ICES has emphasised that the withdrawal does not alter its scientific or advisory work. The organisation will continue under the 1964 ICES Convention, with the remaining 19 member countries maintaining collaborative research, stock assessment and ecosystem monitoring.
While Russia’s formal exit closes the legal chapter of its membership, it does not restore scientific engagement, which had already ceased nearly three years ago. In practical terms, the withdrawal formalises a situation that has existed since early 2022.
Role Of Russia In ICES History
ICES acknowledged that the Russian Federation played an important role in the organisation’s work over many decades, contributing to scientific understanding of shared marine ecosystems, particularly in northern waters.
However, the organisation made clear that its mandate and operations will continue without Russian participation, focusing on delivering independent scientific advice to support sustainable fisheries management and marine policy across the North Atlantic and adjacent seas.
Wider Context For Fisheries Management
Russia’s departure comes at a time of heightened strain in international fisheries governance, with several key stocks subject to unilateral quota-setting and limited multilateral cooperation.
While ICES advice will continue to underpin management decisions for its member countries, the absence of Russian participation further complicates efforts to achieve comprehensive, stock-wide management where Russia remains an active fishing nation.
