On the shores of the Faroe Islands, entire pods of pilot whales—including pregnant mothers and calves—are still driven into shallow waters and killed in the traditional grindadráp. For decades, Sea Shepherd has documented these hunts, sparking global outrage. But outrage alone, Sea Shepherd says - was not enough. “Our campaign has evolved significantly,” Sea Shepherd explains. “In the past, much of our focus was on generating international outrage. That exposure was crucial, but international anger often ended in frustration, without clear pathways to action”.
From Outrage to Strategy
The new approach is about precision. “We document with two primary audiences in mind,” Sea Shepherd says. “Policymakers who can use our evidence to influence trade deals and conventions; and the Faroese public, who will ultimately decide the fate of the grindadráp”
Unfiltered, factual footage is central. “Our focus is on objectivity and transparency… so that we are perceived as honest reporters, not outsiders seeking to exploit their culture”
Respect and Change
The grindadráp is deeply tied to Faroese identity, so Sea Shepherd stresses self-determination: “The decision to end the grind will come from the Faroese people themselves. Our role is not to dictate but to provide clear, objective evidence that sparks local reflection”
And change may be coming. A recent survey shows 15% of Faroese now support ending the grind—a sharp increase. Health concerns and a generational shift are fueling the debate.
From Confrontation to Collaboration
“While direct intervention is restricted by law, our priority now is creating pressure internationally while engaging locally,” Sea Shepherd notes. “It’s a balance that ensures momentum for change without alienating the community whose decision it ultimately is”
By exposing the cruelty, health risks, and sustainability myths of the grindadráp, Operation Living Fjords is opening space for Faroese voices that question whether this tradition still reflects who they are today.
