In 1946, 14 countries signed the International Whaling Convention for the regulation of whaling, forming the International Whaling Commission (IWC). The goal of the IWC is to manage whale stocks as a resource.

The IWC monitors whale populations through scientific advisory groups and coordinates and funds a variety of whale research.

In 1986, the IWC declared a moratorium on commercial whaling. The moratorium - which is still in effect - allows for the possibility of regulated commercial whaling in the future.

Currently, the IWC has no jurisdiction over small cetaceans.

IUCN/The World Conservation Union is a worldwide conservation organization. This organization links together government agencies, non-government agencies, and independent states to encourage a worldwide approach to conservation. The beluga whale is listed in the IUCN/The World Conservation Union's vulnerable category (the species faces a high risk of extinction).

The U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972 made it illegal to hunt or harass marine mammals in the U.S.

The Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international treaty developed in 1973 to regulate trade in certain wildlife species. CITES protects all species of toothed whales. Beluga whales are listed in CITES Appendix II (species not currently considered threatened, but trade is regulated by CITES).

An isolated population of belugas in the St. Lawrence River has been legally protected since 1983. In 1988 the Canada Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and Environment Canada (a government agency that oversees national parks) implemented the St. Lawrence Action Plan.

Whale watching expeditions bring people close to wild whales and help people learn about them.

The NOAA has developed "Marine wildlife viewing guidelines" to protect marine animals. Among other recommendations, the guidelines instruct whale watchers to keep their distance. Chasing or harassing animals, impeding their right of way, touching and feeding animals are not allowed.

Having beluga whales at marine zoological parks provides the opportunity for the public to learn about these animals and how human activities impact their survival.

In the protected environment of a marine zoological park, scientists can examine aspects of beluga whale biology that are difficult or impossible to study in the wild.