# South Atlantic whale sanctuary proposal failure > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/south-atlantic-whale-sanctuary-proposal-failure > Updated: 2026-10-05T01:44:55.000Z. Sources: 17. Developments: 2. At the International Whaling Commission (IWC) conference in Hobart, Australia, a proposal to establish a South Atlantic whale sanctuary failed to reach the required three-quarters majority. The initiative, led by Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, sought to protect approximately 21 million square kilometers of ocean from the equator to Antarctica to safeguard whales during migratory, breeding, and feeding periods. The proposal fell short of the necessary threshold by four votes, receiving 39 votes in favor and 18 against. While supporters argued the sanctuary would benefit ocean health and coastal whale-watching economies, opponents—including Norway and several Caribbean nations—maintained a blockade. Observers noted that Japan has reportedly formed alliances with certain African and Caribbean states to represent its interests following its 2019 exit from the IWC. In related proceedings, separate resolutions were withdrawn, including one by Switzerland regarding the protection of dolphins and small whales, and another by Antigua and Barbuda concerning whale stock management programmes. Despite calls from some nations to reassess the 1982 commercial whaling moratorium, the IWC upheld the existing moratorium. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-05: International Whaling Commission rejects South Atlantic sanctuary bid A proposed South Atlantic whale sanctuary failed to pass at the International Whaling Commission by four votes, while Antigua and Barbuda withdrew a whaling resolution but continues to seek a moratorium review. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/international-whaling-commission-rejects-south-atlantic-sanctuary-bid ### 2026-10-02: South Atlantic whale protection area proposal fails at IWC conference A proposal for a South Atlantic whale protection area failed to reach the required three-quarters majority at the International Whaling Commission conference in Hobart, Australia. 15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/south-atlantic-whale-protection-area-proposal-fails-at-iwc-conference --- Cite as: South Atlantic whale sanctuary proposal failure. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/south-atlantic-whale-sanctuary-proposal-failure