On 20 October,the European Commission launched its Vision 2040 for fisheries and aquaculture, setting out a 15-year roadmap to balance marine conservation, economic resilience, and European food security. The LIFE is pleased to see the Commission embrace key elements of its Rethinking Fisheries vision—developed alongside Seas At Risk—specifically acknowledging the need for a socially fair transition toward low-impact, climate-neutral practices. Both roadmaps recognize that Europe’s seafood sector faces identical existential threats: severe marine ecosystem degradation, the climate emergency, and a critical lack of generational renewal in fishing communities.
However, LIFE encourages decision-makers to push beyond high-level strategy and deliver concrete, enforceable actions that small-scale fishers can rely on at sea. While Vision 2040 marks a welcome step toward a differentiated policy approach, strategic goals will remain empty rhetoric without rigorous enforcement. LIFE urges the EU to anchor these commitments through a robust Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) implementation plan in the 2027 work programme, an ambitious Ocean Act, and maximized support from funding instruments like the EMFAF and Common Market Organisation.
On 12 and 13 October 2026, during the Make Fishing Fair Youth Summit, young fishers, shellfish gatherers, and community advocates from across Europe have officially launched the LIFE Youth Network, demanding fairer policies, genuine support for new entrants, and a formal voice in shaping the future of European seas.
At LIFE, the Board of Directors and staff are delighted to support our young youth representatives in this new adventure, empowering them to shape a fairer, more sustainable future for European seas and coastal communities.
Following last week’s European Parliament hearing on small-scale fisheries, LIFE has addressed an open letter to MEPs urging them to protect the sector in upcoming policy votes. Ahead of the crucial 10 November vote on Procedure 2025/0235(COD), we strongly oppose proposals to alter the definition of small-scale coastal fishing. Adopting a flexible “3 out of 5 criteria” model risks distorting EU fisheries policy and diluting targeted support for genuine small-scale fishers.
News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities
3-5/9 LIFE delegation takes the stage at 3rd SSF Summit
LIFE delegates at the summit in Rome, @LIFE
A delegation from the Low-Impact Fisheries of Europe (LIFE), including six fishers and staff, joined global allies at FAO Headquarters in Rome for the 3rd Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) Summit.
Despite accounting for 40% of global catches and sustaining nearly 500 million livelihoods, small-scale fishers face persistent marginalization in marine governance. At the Summit, LIFE delegates advocated to turn the FAO SSF Guidelines into enforceable rights. They called for exclusive access within 12-mile zones, equitable quota allocations, direct sales infrastructure, and legally binding co-management. Additionally, they urged both developed and developing nations to adopt mandatory SSF Guidelines while shielding local fishing grounds from the expansion of mega-tourism and offshore wind projects.
Alongside global partners such as CAOPA, WFFP, and WFF, LIFE called for the reactivation of the SSF Global Strategic Framework to align key policy demands ahead of the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI 37). LIFE also co-signed a joint statement with 21 civil society organization exposing the “dark side” of intensive ocean feedlots and opposing carnivorous finfish farming which depletes forage fish for fishmeal, destroys marine habitats, and undermines coastal food security across the world, from the Baltic to West Africa.
11/9 Baltic 2027 Quotas: Small-Scale Fishers Caught in the Middle
Decades of industrial overfishing, pollution, and climate change have severely degraded the Baltic Sea. Yet early signs show that depleted fish stocks can still recover if given proper space and protection. Responding to the European Commission’s 2027 Baltic fishing opportunities proposal, LIFE stresses that low-impact coastal fishers must not bear the financial brunt of management cuts for an ecological crisis they did not create.
To reverse this trajectory, LIFE urges Member States to set conservative Total Allowable Catches (TACs), especially for cod and herring, that allow biomass to rebuild rather than chasing short-term yields. Decision-makers must shield small-scale operators using selective gear from undifferentiated restrictions, while actively applying Article 17 of the Common Fisheries Policy to allocate dedicated quotas using social and environmental criteria. Stricter spatial limits and tighter monitoring on large-scale industrial pelagic trawlers are also urgent to eliminate destructive juvenile bycatch.
Setting 2027 quotas with genuine precaution and socio-economic fairness is the only way to move from managing decline to rebuilding a resilient marine environment alongside thriving coastal communities. LIFE full position on Baltic quota is available here.
LIFE at EU Ocean Week: Driving Small-Scale Fisheries to the Center of Policy
During Ocean Week in Brussels, the Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE) maintained advocacy efforts across multiple fora, connecting global momentum for ocean protection directly to the rights of small-scale fishers.
Mobilizing for an Ambitious EU Ocean Act
LIFE staff kicked off the week alongside civil society allies at the European Parliament for a Blue NGOs networking cocktail. The gathering focused on mobilizing around an ambitious EU Ocean Act to secure healthy seas, resilient coastal communities, and coherent marine governance.
Advocacy shifted to direct policy dialogue on September 30 at the “Reflections on the EU Ocean Act Conference”, hosted by the Permanent Representation of Ireland to the EU and featuring MEPs Paulo Nascimento Cabral and Christophe Clergeau alongside Irish Ministry representatives. However, responses by EP representatives regarding explicit inclusion for small-scale fisheries (SSF) within the proposed legislation were distinctly disappointing. LIFE will continue pressing to ensure low-impact fishers are not sidelined in the EU Ocean Act framework.
Rebuilding Baltic Sea Fish Stocks: From Managing Decline to Recovery
Parallel to these broad legislative discussions, LIFE co-hosted “Bringing Baltic Sea fish back: from managing decline to rebuilding” alongside CCB, WWF Finland, and the European Anglers Alliance, with support from Havs- och vattenmyndigheten.
Panellists highlighted that managing decline is no longer enough. Active recovery requires clear rebuilding targets, a shared vision of healthy fish populations, and stronger alignment between scientific advice, fisheries policy, and on-the-ground implementation. Concrete solutions are already taking shape: Glenn Douglas (BSAC Science Focus Group Chair) presented the Baltic Sea Advisory Council’s new framework for stock rebuilding. Here you can view the expert presentations and read the fullBSAC recommendations framework.
Dynamic Debates: Rethink Fisheries Day & Beers and Politics
The previous day, LIFE co-organized the “Rethink Fisheries Day” alongside Seas At Risk. The 12-hour marathon of panels brought together practitioners, advocates, researchers, and policymakers. Discussions spanned critical topics, including stock assessment, marketing, decarbonisation, funding, and basin-specific management challenges, proving that the appetite for a fairer, community-focused fisheries model is stronger than ever.
Rounding out the week on October 1st, LIFE policy advisor Brian O’Riordan joined a panel at “Beers & Politics” to debate the future of the EU Common Fisheries Policy alongside Steve Trent (EJF), Cécile Fouquet (EMPA), Pedro Reis Santos (MAC), and Iván López Van der Veen (EBFA). The session sparked dynamic debate on defining small-scale fisheries, choosing Europe’s future fisheries model, setting consumer information priorities, and addressing challenges in mollusc aquaculture; reaffirming the urgent need to put low-impact fishers at the center of the EU fisheries policy.
17/9 European Parliament Call for CFP Reform: MEPs overlook need for a differentiated approach for Small-Scale Fisheries
The European Parliament voted in Strasbourg to adopt a resolution evaluating and calling for an overhaul of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). While the vote highlights a push to reform the EU’s main fisheries framework, the adopted text misses the central point: the CFP itself remains fit for purpose,it is the widespread failure to properly implement and enforce its existing provisions that holds back European fisheries. Additionally, the adopted text fails to deliver the concrete solutions needed to protect Europe’s small-scale coastal fleets, which should favour access to fishing opportunities, fishing grounds and markets and the rebuilding of stocks. The position of LIFE on the EP resolution is available here.
18-20/9 Seaglow: a dialogue with fishers Estonia
Vessel for the herring fishery, Gulf of Riga, @Seaglow
In their role of SEAGLOW partners, Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE) and local fisher Argo Mengel hosted a workshop at Võiste Port, facilitated by Tallinn University of Technology, to explore small-scale fishing vessels decarbonisation. The spotlight was on PMA-605, a Baltic herring boat being fitted with a hybrid electric-diesel system and hull e-coating designed to slash fuel use by at least 40%.
In the framework of the workshop it appeared that while fishers welcomed quieter operations and lower fuel costs, they ranked technology readiness as their biggest concern, questioning how pure electric systems and winches will handle heavy weather. High upfront costs also mean retrofits require 80–100% public funding and a 5-year payback window to be viable. Crucially, participants called for closer dialogue with policymakers to ensure future regulations reflect the realities of life at sea.
28-29/9 AGRIFISH Council
The EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council met in Brussels chaired by Martin Heydon, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine of Ireland. The Council reached a partial negotiating position on a regulation setting out the conditions for the EU’s support for the Common Fisheries Policy, the EU’s maritime and aquaculture policies, and the European ocean pact for the 2028-2034 period. The Council’s agreement on post-2027 fisheries funding sparked concern among small-scale fisheries and civil society. Absorbing dedicated marine funds into flexible National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs) removes vital green safeguards and risks favoring large-scale industrial fleets. LIFE will continue advocating for compulsory Small-Scale Fisheries Plan in NRPPs and dedicated, ring-fenced funds for the fleet.
Coming up
12-13/10 Brussels – Make Fishing Fair Youth Forum – LIFE and Blue Ventures are co-hosting the Make Fishing Fair Youth Summit to officially launch the LIFE Youth Network. Bringing together young small-scale fishers, coastal community representatives, and EU policymakers, the summit will tackle the core challenges and opportunities facing the next generation on the water. The initiative builds directly on the momentum of the 2025 Make Fishing Fair Forum and its Roadmap, turning one of its highest priorities, generational renewal; into concrete action. By creating the LIFE Youth Network, the campaign ensures young fishers have a seat at the table to actively shape fisheries policy and safeguard the future of their profession.
12/10 Brussels, European Parliament – Public hearing on “Stepping up the EU’s support to small-scale fisheries” – How can the EU better empower small-scale fishers? The PECH Committee’s public hearing, “Stepping up the EU’s support to small-scale fisheries,” gathers experts and decision-makers to address future challenges and unlock practical policy solutions. Framing the debate around the Vision for Fisheries 2040 and key CFP implementation tools, the session focuses on building a more resilient, well-supported fleet segment.
13-15/10 Rome, MEDAC – Management of vulnerable species and offshore wind are on the agenda. In addition, there will be an elective assembly at which the new Executive Committee will be elected.
28/10 Brussels – Publication of the Vision 2040- Back in February 2026, the EU Commission launched a call for evidence to gather views from stakeholders, experts and citizens on the Vision 2040 for fisheries and aquaculture. The document is expected to be released at the end of the month of October.
The current EC definition of small-scale coastal fishing (SSCF) works well. Attempts to replace it are at best misguided, and at worst counter-productive says LIFE.
The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) only took SSCF into account in 2013 following a process of reform. The 2009 Green Paper on the Reform of the CFP highlighted the importance of SSCF and went as far as proposing a differentiated policy and management approach. However, this approach was not adopted.
Prior to that, the European Fisheries Fund (EFF – Council Regulation (EC) No 1198/2006) had come up with a definition in 2006 to ensure that vessels being transferred to tsunami hit countries were appropriate and in line with local needs.
The definition currently used by the EMFAF (Regulation (EU) 2021/1139), and applied by the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee on Fisheries (STECF) in their reporting is based on this 2006 definition (vessels under 12 metres using non-towed gears) but widened in 2013 to include fishers on foot including shellfish gatherers.
The STECF 2024 Annual Economic Report on the EU Fishing Fleet (STECF 24-03 & 24-07) states that the “definition for Small-Scale Coastal Fleet is determined in Regulation (EU) 2021/1139 of 7 July 2021, which establishes the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and amends Regulation (EU) 2017/1004” (as noted above). When this definition is applied, their findings are that the main characteristics of SSCF vessels include:
Area of operation closest to landing points, usually operating within 12 miles;
The vessels are usually owned by small families or one physical person;
Represents the most significant part of the EU fleet in terms of number of vessels – data showing that in 2022 it comprised 76% of the active fleet and 53% of the engaged crew;
SSCF generally improves production price to a higher degree than the LSF, and the gap between prices at first sale can be very high. These gaps may be explained by both differences in quality linked to freshness, size grade and shorter fish supply chain – data showing that in 2022 SSCF landings represented 19% of all EU landings by value, but 6% by value.
Importance to Coastal Communities: the small-scale coastal fleet plays a significant role in supporting coastal communities, providing employment opportunities and contributing to local economies. These fishers often have strong cultural and social ties to their communities, passing down traditional fishing knowledge from generation to generation;
Sustainable Practices: many small-scale coastal fishers adhere to sustainable fishing practices to preserve fish stocks and maintain the ecological balance of coastal areas. They often prioritize selective fishing techniques, avoiding overfished species, and minimizing bycatch (unintended catch of non-target species).
In its 2005/06 Recommendation no 25 04, the International Commission for Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) determines that, for the purposes of the Recommendation, a “small-scale coastal vessel” is a catching vessel with at least three of the five following characteristics: (a) length overall <12 m; (b) the vessel is fishing exclusively inside the territorial waters of the flag CPC; (c) fishing trips have a duration of less than 24 hours; (d) the maximum crew number is established at four persons; or (e) the vessel is fishing using techniques which are selective and have a reduced environmental impact.
Qualifying with only three out of the 5 criteria means that a) the lid on maximum vessel size is lifted, without any limit, and b) any environmentally damaging and non-selective fishing gears may be used. This definition potentially includes up to 90% or more of the EU fleet in the SSCF category, and reduces the significance of SSCF as being low in environmental impact and high in socio-economic value.
LIFE is firmly opposed to such a change.
The road to hell, they say, is paved with good intentions. We call on the well-intended European Parliamentarians to reconsider their call to modify the SSCF definition or justify the change. If they must apply the ICCAT criteria, then please apply all 5 of the 5 criteria.
As well as recognition, small-scale coastal fleets need a differentiated approach, with space and secure access to resources and markets – not just sympathy.
The European Parliament Resolution on the Evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy adopted in Strasbourg last week gives political support to small-scale coastal fleets (SSCF) but fails to treat SSCF as a distinct part of the fleet that requires a differentiated approach, and which should receive preferential access to inshore fishing zones and be rewarded for delivering environmental and social benefits.
Thursday 17 September 2026, the European Parliament Plenary session in Strasbourg adopted a motion for a Resolution on the Evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and follow-up. The motion was proposed by 4 political groups – the EPP, the ECR, the S&D, and the Reform Group. Counter proposals from other political groups (Left, Greens and PIE) were rejected.
The Resolution calls on the Commission to submit a targeted, ambitious revision and simplification package before the end of 2026 to address severe socio-economic challenges, regulatory burdens, and geopolitical pressures. It calls for a sweeping revision of the CFP to allow for modernisation and fleet renewal; for regulatory simplification (viz à viz the control regulation); for greater flexibility in mixed fisheries to deal with unwanted by-catch, choke species, and also greater flexibility in the implementation of the landing obligation; reassessment of seabed impact by different gears, to incentivise selectivity and decarbonisation, to duly take into account socio-economic considerations alongside the best available scientific advice when setting TACs.
Whilst the resolution cites the Parliament’s previous work on Article 17 of the CFP and recent advances, its operative paragraphs say almost nothing about implementing it whilst disregarding the findings of the Commission’s evaluation of the CFP. LIFE broadly agrees with the Evaluation findings that the current shortcomings of the policy stem less from the CFP framework itself than from uneven implementation and enforcement by Member States, something that the current Resolution fails to address.
LIFE would have liked to have seen an explicit call to implement Article 17 in the spirit of the law (as laid out in Recital 33 of the CFP (Regulation 1380/2013)) by allocating quotas using transparent environmental, social and economic criteria to:
reward selective, low-impact and locally rooted fishing through additional quotas;
reserve part of fishing opportunities for SSCF;
facilitate access for young and new entrant fishers through ring fenced quotas and sectoral support;
correct historic allocations that have consolidated quota in the hands of incumbent and larger operators.
SSCF viability depends less on general recognition than on secure access to fish. Simplifying rules or modernising vessels alone will not help fishers who have insufficient quota or cannot enter quota-managed fisheries. Of note too, is that increasingly the viability of SSCF, even for those with quota, is plagued by a lack of fish in coastal waters due to stock depletion and the impacts of climate change and pollution.
The Resolution calls for socio-economic considerations to be placed alongside scientific advice, but this should not be used to set catches above precautionary scientific limits or for not addressing the need to stop overfishing. For SSCF healthy stocks are the indispensable social policy for fishing communities, combined with targeted short-term support when recovery measures are necessary.
Vulnerable ecosystems must be protected. Differentiating between bottom gears is justified, as is restricting those with greatest impact. However, weakening habitat protection generally would not serve coastal SSF that depend on functioning ecosystems.
Calls for simplification should focus on reducing unnecessary administrative burdens and achieving effective implementation. It should not mean weaker traceability, less reliable catch data, reduced control of larger operators, or lower environmental and social standards. Poor control frequently benefits operators with greater catching capacity and disadvantages compliant small-scale fishers.Therefore, the principle should be differentiated with proportionate implementation, combined with equally effective control, rather than general deregulation.
Let’s remind ourselves: SSCF provides over 50% of the seagoing jobs and land nearly 20% of the catch by value, generating vital social and economic benefits in coastal areas, anchoring livelihoods and commerce. They face existential threats which this Resolution fails to address.
In the latest State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture Report (SOFIA 2026), the steadily growing importance of aquaculture compared to capture fisheries is highlighted. In 2024 aquaculture production of aquatic animals exceeded 100 million tonnes, compared to capture fisheries which extracted 92 million tonnes.
For LIFE, such news is to be welcomed, particularly where aquaculture can complement and be combined with small-scale low impact inshore fisheries. Non-fed aquaculture, i.e. aquaculture that uses the natural production of the sea to produce seafood in the form of bivalve molluscs and seaweeds, can also help to restore degraded marine habitats and clean polluted waters, whilst providing food and livelihoods for coastal communities.
However, there is a dark side to aquaculture. As on land for pigs, poultry and cattle, at sea for finfish the intensive industrial feedlot production is the cause of significant pollution, coastal enclosure, environmental degradation and habitat destruction to the detriment of small-scale fisheries and coastal communities. Such carnivorous aquaculture systems depend critically on fishmeal and fish oil incorporated into aquafeeds. Fishmeal is derived from a variety of sources, including from so-called “feed fish”, small-pelagic species. Reduction of such fish to fishmeal and oil can impact the food and livelihood security of coastal communities around the world, from the Baltic Sea to the coast of West Africa.
This is why LIFE has signed up to a joint statement on aquaculture presented to the 37th Session of the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI 37). The statement was drafted by the African Confederation of Artisanal Fisheries Organisations (CAOPA) and endorsed by 21 Civil Society and Small-scale Fishing (SSF) Organisations.
LIFE feels that joining up to such a statement is particularly important following the speech of the FAO Director General to the SSF Summit where he questioned the nutritional quality of wild fish, portraying fishing as an activity that is generally neither sustainable nor environmentally friendly, nor capable of generating sufficient income.
ROME, ITALY – Six fishers and LIFE’s executive secretary from the Low-Impact Fisheries of Europe (LIFE) joined small-scale fishers and global partners at FAO Headquarters from 4 to 6 September 2026 for the 3rd Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) Summit. Held prior to the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI), the biennial Summit provides a rights-based platform to accelerate the implementation of the 2014 FAO Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF Guidelines).
Small-scale fisheries account for 90% of employment in capture fisheries value chains, contribute at least 40% of global catches, and sustain 492 million livelihoods worldwide. Despite this vital role, small-scale fishers face persistent marginalization in marine governance.
Throughout the three-day gathering—which opened with an exclusive fisher actors forum before bringing together researchers, civil society, and government ministers—LIFE’s delegation played a central role in articulating European priorities:
Global Political Priorities: LIFE’s president Gwen Pennarun represented LIFE in Session 1.2 alongside transnational fisheries movements, demanding preferential access for SSF in the 12mile zone, fair access to quota allocations, and the need for legal plan of action for small-scale, low-impact fishers that could also foster generational renewal.
Regional Facilitation:Sandra Amezaga co-presented the summary of Day 1 opening proceedings and officially facilitated, together with Marta Cavallé, the Europe and Central Asia regional breakout session, guiding discussions on implementation strategies across European basin regions. As main outcomes there was the call for making SSF Guidelines a mandatory tool for developing but also developed countries.
Regional Plan Evaluation:MacarenaMolina delivered a critical assessment of the Regional Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries (RPOA-SSF) in the Mediterranean and Black Sea, grounded in operational realities from the Cabo de Gata Marine Reserve in Almería, Spain. She highlighted pressing obstacles in its implementation—including spatial competition from offshore wind energy and mega-tourism, lack of direct sales infrastructure, sidelined co-management, and a regression in women’s representation in decision-making. Macarena called on signing Member States to honor their commitments in all the Region by securing spatial rights, enabling direct sales, restoring degraded marine habitats, greater role for women in fisheries and establishing binding co-management.
“Small-scale low-impact fishers cannot remain sidelined in policy decisions that threaten their coastal territories,” LIFE delegates emphasized. “We need concrete political commitment to turn global guidelines into concrete action and enforceable rights on the water.”
Reactivating the SSF Global Strategic Framework (SSF-GSF)
A central focus of the Summit was presenting outcomes from the reactivation process of the Global Strategic Framework in support of the SSF Guidelines (SSF-GSF). Originally established following recognition by COFI as a global partnership mechanism, the idea to renew the SSF-GSF mechanism is intended to offer small-scale fisheries actors, governments, and supporting stakeholders a collaborative platform to guide and encourage the SSF Guidelines implementation. Transnational organizations presented their vision and objectives for the reactivated framework, which will be presented and asked for at the COFI meetings.
Unifying the Global SSF Movement and the Call to Action
The Summit essentially provided a vital opportunity to strengthen alignment across the global small-scale fisheries movement. By bringing together leading transnational alliances—including the Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE), the African Confederation of Professional Organizations of Artisanal Fisheries (CAOPA), the World Forum of Fisher Peoples (WFFP), and the World Forum of Fish Harvesters and Fish Workers (WFF), Union of Latin American Small-scale Fishers (ULAPA), International Treaty Council (IITC), African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network (AWFISHNET), Community-Based Fisheries Dialogue’s Advisory Group (CBFD AG) —delegates coordinated joint policy statements for COFI. This collective momentum reinforces the need for global advocacy and provides enhanced visibility to relevant initiatives such as the Call to Action, enabling signatories and small-scale fisher organizations worldwide to build a united front for tenure rights, ocean justice, and sustainable coastal livelihoods. This was nicely visualised with the delivery by CAOPA to LIFE of an award recognising the joint work on this important call.
Decades of overfishing have weakened stocks, which are now having to face adverse impacts from pollution and climate change. Despite the degradation of the Baltic Sea marine environment, there are signs that stocks can recover if allowed to do so.
Here are LIFE’s recommendations for Baltic Sea quotas for 2027, based on the need to support stock growth:
In order to support the small-scale coastal fishing sector that anchors coastal communities it is necessary for the TAC regulation to support fish stock growth. SSFC above all depends on the availability of fish of marketable size, and fish must be allowed to grow to meet prime market requirements for SSCF to be viable.
The Commission proposal for central Baltic herring does this, allowing for the third quota increase in four years while supporting an increase in the availability of larger herring and older year classes. This builds on the previous two years where the Council has set a prudent quota (0.5 Fmsy) that has delivered benefits to both the sector and the stocks.
However, adjustments to the Commission proposal are necessary. The bycatch quota for the cod stocks should be maintained at the same level as 2026 in order to minimise the risk of unintended control issues (i.e. lack of proper controls on trawling). Anecdotal evidence indicates that cod bycatch within the pelagic sector far exceeds the allowable quota but is unreported. Misreporting should be addressed as opposed to TAC reductions.
With regards to plaice, approximately 6% of the quota allocated in 2026 has been caught. The Commission’s proposed quota allocation for 2027 is therefore unrealistic, and is consequent to the scientific advice failing to reflect the current stock structure and the potential fishable biomass. The share of the used TAC has been very low, less than 15%, for many years and is declining. We therefore recommend that Article 7 of the TAC regulation is amended to allow for passive gear fishing in subdivisions 25 and 26 to be extended to a depth of 40 metres. This would allow for plaice to be exploited with more success as it escapes to deeper colder waters.
For the western spring spawning herring quota it is imperative that the Council reintroduces the directed fishing provision for the small-scale sector and rolls over the existing TAC to 2027.
With regards to Bothnian herring the Commission proposal fails to support stock growth and the level of fishing mortality would exceed the 0,5 Fmsy threshold. Therefore, we recommend a 20% reduction in the proposed TAC from 57,308 to 45,544 tonnes. Fishing in 2026 has seen a stalled recovery. The improvements that fishermen had observed last year have been eroded due to excessive levels of fishing mortality by the industrial reduction fishery for fishmeal. It is imperative to reduce fishing mortality and maintain F at levels which support stock growth and allow for the small-scale sector to have the conditions necessary for a thriving and prosperous sector.
For both central Baltic herring and sprat the stock development has been positive and is a direct consequence of the Council decisions to not pursue the maximum theoretical catch. This clearly demonstrates that stock recovery is possible despite the degradation of the Baltic Sea’s marine environment and stock growth is contingent on maintaining this prudent approach.
LIFE recommends capping quotas at 0,5 Fmsy for lower trophic level species so as to account for ecosystem dynamics and model uncertainties while allowing for stable quotas and avoidance of fishery closures. ICES ACOM state that “fishing at levels that are around 75% of FMSY or even lower will result in a minimal loss of long-term yields and produce a much larger SSB, which is de facto compatible with EBFM and in line with current legislation given the large, often unaccounted uncertainty in any assessment model.”
Recovery advice is a priority and we regret the lack of progress that has been made since the unanimous statement from Member States and the Commission at the 2026 Agrifish Council meeting. Maintaining momentum is necessary to ensure that our stocks are healthy and can support the livelihoods of small-scale fishing communities – in-line with the CFP objective to restore and maintain harvested fish populations above levels that can produce the Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY).
Why is SSCF important
In the Baltic Sea, small-scale coastal fishing (SSCF) accounts for over 90% of the fleet and over 60% of employment (with 80% of the actual jobs) in fishing (based on Full Time Equivalent – FTE). Despite most of these jobs being of a part time nature, SSCF provides an important additional source of income for coastal communities with few alternatives. The demise of the sector and the difficult economic conditions it is experiencing threaten the viability of the coastal communities that depend on SSCF.
Over the past decade, SSCF has seen a significant erosion of its access to fishing opportunities, notably due to the demise of the cod stocks (both eastern and western) which were closed to targeted fishing in 2019. Going forward, the outlook continues to be bleak, with the continued closure of eastern and western stocks of cod to targeted fishing, with fishing opportunities allocated only for “unavoidable bycatches”. SSCF will also be hit by the closures of Western Baltic herring and “main basin salmon” in ICES subdivisions 22 to 31.
Meanwhile, industrial reduction fisheries for fishmeal continue to catch significant but unrecorded quantities of commercially important species like cod, herring and salmon as “unavoidable bycatch”, thereby undermining the recovery of these stocks.
News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities
JOIN US on 30 September in Brussels!
Rethink Fisheries Day – Pathways for a Just Transition! The Low Impact Fishers of Europe and Seas At Risk are organising this one-day event bringing together policymakers, fishers, scientists, civil society organisations and practitioners to explore practical pathways towards fair, low-impact and ecosystem-based fisheries in Europe. Register here!
29/6-3/7 LIFE Strategy Meeting in the Netherlands
The LIFE team spent an intensive and inspiring week in the fishing village of Den Oever, in the Netherlands. With the expert guidance ofStone Soup Consulting, an international consultancy specialising in strategy, organisational development and social impact, the team reflected on LIFE’s future direction, strengthened its internal strategy and shaped its priorities for the years ahead. Bringing colleagues together in person created valuable space to exchange ideas, challenge perspectives and align around a shared vision for advancing LIFE’s mission to support its members.
The week also included a meeting with theNorth Sea Passive Fisheries Foundation, which represents and supports the Dutch passive fishing sector, and thePot Fishing Agency, a Den Oever-based company that develops innovative fishing and processing technologies and conducts fisheries research. Discussions focused on fisheries innovation, shared ambitions and opportunities for closer collaboration to strengthen the future of small-scale and low-impact fishing.
7-8/7 EU Ocean Act Conference 2026 in Wexford, Ireland
Hosted by Ireland’s Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, the EU Ocean Act Conference coincided with the opening days ofIreland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union and offered an early indication of the new Presidency’s position and priorities on ocean governance. The event brought together government representatives, EU officials, policymakers, researchers and maritime stakeholders to discuss the forthcoming European Ocean Act and the wider future for EU blue economy sectors.
LIFE Member of the Board and IIMRO representative Séamus Bonner attended the event. From a small-scale fisheries perspective, Minister Dooley’s opening message that “communities have to be at the core” and recognition of our interdependence in ocean governance was welcomed. LIFE and IIMRO stress that this must translate into meaningful participation and concrete measures for small-scale fisheries, including recognition of customary fishing areas, fair access under CFP Article 17, traditional ecological knowledge, generational renewal, and transparent marine spatial planning that enables coexistence with offshore renewables and the marine protected area legislation, which was announced at the conference.
9/7 European Parliament debates the future of EU fisheries policy
The European Parliament held a plenary debate in Strasbourg on the future of the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). MEPs questioned EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis about the outlook for the policy and the measures needed to support the sector.
The discussion addressed several issues of particular importance to small-scale fishers, including fleet renewal and decarbonisation, administrative simplification, generational renewal and the economic resilience of fishing communities. No resolution was adopted in July; the debate served as preparation for a parliamentary resolution expected to be put to a vote during the plenary session of 14–17 September.
The September resolution is expected to establish Parliament’s political position following the Commission’s recent evaluation of the CFP. It could help shape the debate on any subsequent reform of the CFP, its implementation and future EU funding for fisheries. Although non-binding, the resolution will provide an important indication of Parliament’s priorities for the future of EU fisheries and of the place accorded to small-scale fishers within that future.
16/07 LIFE submits its opinion on the Ocean Act
LIFE submitted its input to the public consultation launched by the European Commission to help shape the European Ocean Act, a key legislative proposal under the European Ocean Pact, set for adoption in 2026. The Ocean Act aims to strengthen ocean governance in the EU, serving as a single reference point for all economic, climate, environmental, and social targets to protect and sustainably use ocean resources.
In its response, LIFE highlighted its main priorities and key proposals. In particular, the upcoming Ocean Act offers an opportunity to establish a legislative framework that translates the Ocean Pact’s commitment to prioritising small-scale fisheries (SSF) into concrete action. LIFE’s submission therefore calls for the new legislation to include: a binding plan of action for SSF; preferential access and regenerative fishery areas; fair allocation of fishing opportunities and fostering a just transition to low-impact fishing; comanagement and inclusive governance; prioritising fishing for direct human consumption over reduction fisheries; social dimension and generational renewal and establishing a climate-adaptive Maritime Spatial Planning.
21/7 LIFE General Assembly: advocacy priorities and organisational development
The LIFE team briefed members on recent advocacy developments, and the organisation’s 2025 financial statements were presented and approved. In particular, members discussed the Fisheries Control Regulation and the challenges its implementation poses for the small-scale fisheries sector; the Ocean Act consultation and the need to strengthen protections for small-scale fisheries within the 12-nautical-mile coastal zone; and the growing threat posed by invasive species. A presentation by LIFE Project Officer Aksel Ydren on the round goby prompted participants to share experiences and examples from across Europe. The final thematic session examined the development of LIFE’s Youth Network and opportunities to strengthen the participation of younger fishers in the organisation and the wider sector. The meeting provided an important opportunity for LIFE members to exchange knowledge, guide the organisation’s advocacy and reinforce its internal governance.
23/7 LIFE visits Cooperativa San Leopoldo in Tuscany
LIFE team member Claudia Orlandini visited LIFE Italian members from Cooperativa San Leopoldo on the Tuscan coast. The visit included a tour of the cooperative’s processing unit, where small volumes of catch are transformed into high-quality, value-added products. These include tuna, grey mullet and clams preserved in oil or prepared in vacuum-packed formats. This approach enables the cooperative to make better use of lower-volume products while increasing their value and extending their shelf life.
Cooperativa San Leopoldo also works with scientific institutes to develop and test new technologies for farming innovative marine species using natural feeding systems, like plankton. The visit offered a valuable insight into how cooperation, local processing and scientific research can create new opportunities for small-scale fishing communities.
Visit to Finland
LIFE attended a study visit organised by the Finnish fishers’ association Österbottens Fiskareförbund, bringing together coastal fishers from Sweden and Finland. As part of the program, participants visited fisher Karl-Åke Wallin, Chairman of the Producer Organisation Kustfiskarna Bottenhavet, a member organisation of LIFE. During the visit, LIFE’s Aksel Ydrén presented the round goby project, sharing insights on how to tackle and utilise this invasive species and discussed cross-border collaboration between coastal fishers in Sweden and Finland.
Coming up:
3-6/9 SSF Summit in Rome, Italy – A LIFE delegation will attend the FAO Small-Scale Fisheries Summit, bringing together representatives of small-scale fishing communities and supporting organisations to exchange experiences, identify shared priorities and strengthen international cooperation. The main focus will be the implementation of the FAO’s Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication.
19/9 Võiste, Estonia – As a Seaglow consortium member, LIFE will visit Võiste, Estonia, to attend the local fisheries fair and introduce Seaglow to the local community.
23-24/9 Bilbao, Spain – LIFE President Gwen Pennarun will participate in a workshop organised by EU-funded research project INSPIRI bringing stakeholders together to develop shared visions for a sustainable and restored Bay of Biscay and Atlantic Ocean.
28-9/2-10 Ocean week, Brussels – A week of initiatives and events organised by Brussels Blue NGOs and other stakeholders, placing a healthy ocean at the heart of Europe’s future resilience, blue economy and environmental sustainability.
Parallel to these broad legislative discussions, LIFE co-hosted 
12-13/10 Brussels – Make Fishing Fair Youth Forum 
The Summit essentially provided a vital opportunity to strengthen alignment across the global small-scale fisheries movement. By bringing together leading transnational alliances—including the Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE), the African Confederation of Professional Organizations of Artisanal Fisheries (CAOPA), the World Forum of Fisher Peoples (WFFP), and the World Forum of Fish Harvesters and Fish Workers (WFF), Union of Latin American Small-scale Fishers (ULAPA), International Treaty Council (IITC), African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network (AWFISHNET), Community-Based Fisheries Dialogue’s Advisory Group (CBFD AG) —delegates coordinated joint policy statements for COFI. This collective momentum reinforces the need for global advocacy and provides enhanced visibility to relevant initiatives such as the 
The LIFE team spent an intensive and inspiring week in the fishing village of Den Oever, in the Netherlands. With the expert guidance of
LIFE team member Claudia Orlandini visited LIFE Italian members from Cooperativa San Leopoldo on the Tuscan coast. The visit included a tour of the cooperative’s processing unit, where small volumes of catch are transformed into high-quality, value-added products. These include tuna, grey mullet and clams preserved in oil or prepared in vacuum-packed formats. This approach enables the cooperative to make better use of lower-volume products while increasing their value and extending their shelf life.