International and regional agreements, national legislation, and public policies

The franciscana ranges from Itaúnas (18°25’S), Espírito Santo State, Brazil, to Golfo San Matías (42°10’S), Chubut, Argentina. It is considered the most threatened small cetacean in South America. Incidental catches in gillnets are the main threat. This chapter aims to give an overview of the international, national, provincial, and local legislative measures in place as well as the public policies to protect the species.