Newsletters

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

1/7 Strengthening Fisheries and Maritime Spatial Planning: LIFE at Key EU Dialogues

LIFE participated in the third meeting of the Member States’ Joint Special Group on the EU Action Plan Protecting and Restoring Marine Ecosystems for Sustainable and Resilient Fisheries and, the following day, in the Implementation Dialogue on Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) chaired by Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis. 

The Action Plan formed part of the package of measures, the “Pact for Fisheries and Oceans”, published in February 2023, and aims to improve the sustainability and resilience of the EU’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. It is designed to achieve a more consistent implementation of the EU’s environmental policy and the common fisheries policy with its three sustainability pillars – environmental, economic and social. The Implementation Dialogue on MSP is the first of two such dialogues to be organised this year. The second is set for November 24 and will focus on small-scale fisheries. Commissioner Kadis is tasked with organising two such dialogues each year. 

Representing LIFE, Policy Advisor Brian O’Riordan drew attention to the marginalisation of small-scale fishers (SSF) as offshore energy and aquaculture gain priority. He warned against treating oceans as unlimited space to be divided among competing interests, stressing the cumulative impacts on ecosystems and the need for clear trade-offs between energy and food security.

To address these challenges, LIFE proposed the creation of a Fishery Regenerative Zone within the 12-mile limit. This zone would be dedicated to conservation and regeneration projects, while reserving space for low-impact small-scale fishing under co-management. Such an initiative would help offset the pressures of large-scale Blue Economy sectors, strengthen marine ecosystems, and secure a fair future for SSF.

10/7 A Participative Label for small-scale fisheries: LIFE’s PGS Steering Group meet in London

Jeremy Percy, LIFE Senior Advisor, is tasked to lead a project being developed by LIFE towards establishing a Participative Guarantee Scheme (PGS) tailored for European small-scale fishers. The PGS is intended to serve as a locally-focused quality assurance mechanism, promoting sustainable, ethical fishing practices while creating market differentiation and economic benefits for small-scale fishers. PGS has been developed by IFOAM – the Organic & Regenerative Agriculture movement – for small-holder organic farmers, and this project builds on and adapts that successful model to SSF. The project is supported by Patagonia, the outdoor clothing company in business to save our home planet.

The London meeting brought together the project’s steering group: Marta Cavallé, LIFE Executive Secretary, Brian O’Riordan, LIFE Policy Advisor, Caroline Bennett, Founder of Sole of Discretion, and Jerry Percy, LIFE Senior Adviser. The meeting was convened to discuss 3 documents produced by Jerry over the past months: a draft business plan, a roadmap for implementation, and a detailed operational strategy for implementing a PGS. The project, it seems, is well on track and in safe hands. 

14/7 Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) 5th webinar

LIFE attended 2 webinars organised by the Energy Transition Partnership (ETP), as Small-Scale Fisheries Coordinator. The first was an exchange of views with the European Commission DG GROW and DG MOVE, to better understand their energy transition-related plans and initatitves, including the “European Industrial Maritime Strategy” and the “EU 2025 Ports strategy and the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP)”. The second workshop focused on an exchange of views with the Advisory Councils. LIFE explained how small-scale fisheries have low carbon emissions but face major threats in their future, including limited resources and low viability, underlying the need for a dedicated action plan to secure their place in the energy transition. The various ACs presented different perspectives on the Roadmap, addressing it sector by sector. Notably, both NWWAC and MEDAC questioned the value of differentiating between small- and large-scale fisheries. They pointed out that many recommendations overlap and that the definitions remain unclear.

17/7 LIFE Board of Directors Reviews Policy and Strategic Priorities

LIFE convened its Board of Directors to address a wide range of policy and organisational matters. The meeting opened with updates on the Ocean Pact, the UN Ocean Conference, and other recent and upcoming policy-related events. Members then reviewed developments surrounding the Denmark Fisheries Bill, drawing lessons from the legislative process.

Strategic approaches were discussed on LIFE’s position to the ongoing evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). The Board also considered new membership applications and concluded with updates on financial matters. 

This meeting underscored LIFE’s commitment to shaping fisheries policy at both national and European levels while strengthening its organisational base.

18/7 LIFE and Partners Highlight Need to Reform Scientific Advice for EU and UK Fisheries

LIFE, together with 29 organisations, has endorsed a briefing exposing major shortcomings in the scientific advice guiding EU and UK fisheries management. The current system, led by ICES, often overlooks legal obligations and sustainability goals—leaving fishers with shrinking quotas and risking further closures.The briefing calls for precautionary, ecosystem-based advice that ensures stock recovery, protects marine ecosystems, and builds resilience against climate change. Presented at a meeting with the European Commission’s DG Mare, the briefing was discussed by LIFE, NGOs, and policymakers. It contributes to a broader scientific debate, with recent research describing a “systemic failure” in EU fisheries management.

22/8 LIFE Calls on the Swedish Government to Address Inequities in EU Fisheries Control Rules

LIFE has called on the Swedish government, as Baltfish chair, to draft a Joint Recommendation for eDNA-based monitoring to ensure fair and transparent fisheries management.

Under the 2024 EU Fisheries Control Regulation, small-scale fishers must report catches within strict margins of 10% (20% in the Baltic). Meanwhile, large industrial vessels landing mixed catches for fishmeal factories are exempt from reporting if they use seven “Listed Ports” (six in Denmark, one in Latvia).

This system unfairly penalises small-scale fleets targeting fish for human consumption while favouring high-volume operators, undermining sustainability and accountability.

Press, reports and other interesting reading

PECH Committee Research: [Publication] The multiannual plan for the Baltic Sea. A change in management needed

FAO SSF Guidelines newsletter – UNOC3: When the voice of small-scale fishers resonates globally

Report on the Sri Lanka Workshop, February 2025:  Strengthening Collaboration and Capacity-Building in Small-scale Fisheries, 24-26 February, 2025

New Fisheries Bill in Denmark: proposes to establish a trawler exclusion zone in coastal areas https://lifeplatform.eu/denmark-charts-a-new-course-quota-security-for-coastal-fishers-gains-ground/ 

Plastic pollution and the threat of plastic pellets shipping: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/aug/12/nurdles-kerala-india-microplastic-pellets-pollution-fishing-environment-law 

Coming up

9/9 Brussels, Belgium – Parliament / SEARICA: Baltic Sea Bankruptcy – a changed climate, broken economy and ecosystem

9/9 Cascais, Portugal – World Ocean Summit:  dialogue on several issues, including coastal resilience, deep-sea mining, national security and defence, marine biodiversity and ocean technology.

23/24/9 Nyborg, Denmark – Danish EU Presidency Conference on the Horizon Europe Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters”

30/9 Stockholm, Sweden – Our Baltic Ministerial Conference 

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

9-13/6 Advancing the Global Agenda for Small-Scale Fishers: LIFE at UNOC3 

From 9 to 13 June LIFE participated in the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, as part of the global delegation of small-scale fishers. The delegation reaffirmed the Small-Scale Fishers’ Call to Action, first launched at UNOC2 in Lisbon in 2022, and grounded in the FAO Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries.

The LIFE delegation was composed of Gwen Pennarun, President of LIFE and the Brittany Handliners Association; Séamus Bonner, Board Member of LIFE and IIMRO; Sandrine Thomas, French fisherwoman; Ken Kawahara, Secretary of the Brittany Handliners Association; and Marta Cavallé, LIFE Executive Secretary. The delegation was accompanied and supported by Elsa Pullman, Senior Campaigner at Blue Ventures.

In collaboration with Blue Ventures, LIFE co-hosted two screenings of Sea Change: The Future of Fishing (ZED). These events were organised in the framework of the joint Make Fishing Fair campaign, with the aim to highlight key governance challenges faced by small-scale fishers. In addition, LIFE delegates were invited as panellists of other events dealing with a wide range of topics, including EU funding, data empowerment for small-scale fisheries in the views of emerging technologies, and ocean governance, and took part in networking sessions, engaging with fishers, decision-makers, and civil society representatives.

At the international level, LIFE partnered with small-scale fishers organisations across the globe and supporting partners, and co-organised a range of activities along the week, including a dedicated side event in the Blue zone that brought together over 40 fishers from 25 countries, hosted by the governments of Costa Rica and Germany. Delegates from all continents delivered joint powerful statements, prompting commitments from governments such as Costa Rica, Madagascar, Seychelles, and Ghana to expand preferential access zones and co-management frameworks.

At the EU level, the presentation of the European Oceans Pact and the announcement of a forthcoming Oceans Act marked a step forward although in general it is marked by the consolidation of existing initiatives. LIFE welcomes the recognition of small-scale fisheries “as a priority” within this agenda but emphasises the need for binding, concrete measures that really make a difference for this sector. In the lead-up to the Small-Scale Fishers’ Implementation Dialogue in November, LIFE will continue to advocate for a dedicated Action Plan for European small-scale fisheries. Additional information on LIFE’s participation can be found in this op-ed by Marta Cavallé. 

3/6 Decarbonising the Fleet: LIFE Calls for a Fair Transition based on Proportionality for Small-Scale Fisheries

The 4th meeting of the Fishing Shipbuilding Working Group under the Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) set up by the European Commission-DG Mare brought together diverse perspectives on decarbonising the fishing fleet, with a focus on feasibility, financing, and social impact. The session featured a panel discussion, technical presentations, and updates on EU-level engagement.

Speaking on behalf of the small-scale sector, LIFE’s Policy Advisor Brian O’Riordan highlighted that the energy transition is currently policy-driven, not market-led—leaving many fishers without a clear business case. He stressed that small-scale operators face particular challenges: outdated vessels, limited support, and growing spatial pressures from offshore energy and aquaculture. He warned that decarbonisation measures being proposed far outweigh the very minor and decreasing contribution to carbon emissions made by the sector. There is a need for proportionality, he said. 

While recent advances in electric propulsion are promising, O’Riordan warned that vessel designs must still meet real-world demands for safety and functionality. He also flagged the risks of social exclusion, noting that without targeted support, the transition could worsen inequalities and discourage young fishers from entering the sector.

The same afternoon, LIFE organised the 4th meeting of the Small-Scale Fisheries Working Group (SSF WG) under the ETP as well. The members of the Working Group discussed a final statement and a list of recommendations from the sector to the future Roadmap of the Energy Transition which is expected to be sent out by september. 

17-18/6 Seaglow Meeting in Sweden focuses on Sustainable Innovation 

LIFE, a Seaglow partner, participated in the recent SEAGLOW consortium meeting hosted by RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, where European partners discussed next steps in driving sustainable innovation in small-scale fisheries. The agenda covered technology pilots, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration strategies.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to connect with REFEST project partners and the project advisor from CINEA, focusing on shared goals around the energy transition, sustainable practices, and contributing to the EU Mission: Restore our Ocean and Waters.

LIFE continues to support collaborative efforts that centre small-scale fishers in the transition to low-impact, climate-resilient fisheries.

25/6 Baltfish Forum: Small-Scale Fishers must not be left behind

LIFE participated in the latest Baltfish Forum, held in Hamburg under the German presidency. The main focus was on ICES advice for 2026 and its implications for the future of Baltic Sea fisheries.

Despite many stocks being at or near historically low levels, ICES recommends a significant increase in catches—more than 70,000 tonnes. LIFE, along with several other organisations, expressed serious concern that such an increase, if implemented, could further harm already fragile stocks rather than support their recovery. The gap between ICES recommendations and the realities observed at sea remains troubling, and the discussions offered no clear way forward.

The European Commission, represented by Maja Kirchner from DG MARE, acknowledged the particularly difficult situation facing Sweden’s small-scale coastal fishers and their dependence on healthy, sustainable stocks. LIFE stressed that small-scale fishers using passive gear must be guaranteed access to cod as bycatch under fair and selective rules, in line with the EU’s landing obligation. We also urged the implementation of environmental DNA (iDNA) as a cost-effective tool to monitor bycatch in the large-scale fleet.

Moreover, LIFE called on Sweden to include Bothnian Sea herring in its national work plan when it assumes the Baltfish presidency. 

Quotas for next year will be the main subject at the Baltic regional management body. This was the last meeting under the German Presidency, which was succeeded by Sweden on 1 July. 

27/6 Pollack Fishery: Positive Shift in ICES Advice

LIFE and its member, the Irish Islands Marine Resource Organisation (IIMRO), welcome the updated ICES advice on pollack. The Council now advises a Total Allowable Catch (TAC) of 3,310 tonnes for 2026 in ICES Areas VI and VII—a significant shift from the previous zero-TAC recommendation that led to the closure of the inshore handline fishery. This result is a good indication of potential recovery and offers hope for reopening the fishery, which has been closed for several years, with serious consequences for the small-scale fishers who depend on it for their livelihoods and end the injustice of large scale fisheries that keep fishing this resource as by-catch.

Coming up

8/7 Brussels – Presentation of the EMFAF study supporting the evaluation of the landing obligation : CINEA and DG MARE are organising an event to present the EMFAF funded study supporting  the evaluation of the landing obligation, five years after its full implementation.

In the press

Euractiv: Muireann Kavanagh op-ed on the EU fisheries management system 

Science Advances: New study highlights link between the poor state of eastern baltic cods and fishing pressure.

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

Join LIFE at  #UNOC3 in Nice!

The high-level 2025 United Nations Conference to Support the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development (the 2025 UN Ocean Conference) will be held in Nice, France, from 9 – 13 June 2025, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica.

Don’t miss LIFE’s inspiring events on small-scale fisheries and ocean sustainability:

Monday 9 June

The Future of Fisheries Subsidies: from Imbalance to Equity – LIFE will be on the panel of this event organised by ClientEarth, Seas At Risk and BirdLife to explore how a fair reallocation of funding/ subsidies can help us achieve nature restoration targets and support a just transition in the fisheries sector. 

Venue: FOAM, Place du Pin (10min walk from the Blue Zone) – Arrival: from 16:30 Talks and Q&A: 17:00

Register here.

Make Fishing Fair – A Film & Conversation with Small-Scale Fishers – Screening of a powerful new documentary called “Sea Change – The Future of Fishing” by ZED productions followed by a live discussion on the lived experiences and challenges of small-scale fishers.

Time: 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Location: Ocean Base Camp, UNOC Green Zone “La Baleine”
Details: Screening of a powerful new documentary, followed by a live discussion centering on the lived experiences and challenges of small-scale fishers.
Languages: Interpretation available (English ↔ French)

Register here.

Thursday 10 June

UNOC Mediterranean Day: Segment 3: Civil society envisioning Mediterranean Action in the Future

Location:Centre Universitaire Méditerranéen (CUM) 65 Promenade des Anglais, 06000 Nice – Time:16:30 – 18:15 PM

Register here

Thursday 12 June

All Things Data: Advancing the Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines through Fisher-Led, Inclusive, and Scalable Data Systems – This interactive session will unpack how data systems—when co-designed with small-scale fishers—can transform fisheries governance, resilience, and equity

Location:
Details: Startup Reef, Green Zone, La Baleine: Nice Acropolis Exhibition Center, 1 Esplanade Kennedy, 06000 Nice

Time: 10:00 – 11:30

Register here

Small-Scale Fisheries – At the Heart of Ocean Governance and Food Security –  Engage with experts and community representatives in an essential conversation on how small-scale fisheries can and should shape the future of sustainable oceans and food systems.

Date: Wednesday, June 12, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Location: Room 4 – Blue Zone
Access: Blue Zone and Host Country pass needed for this event

*****

21-23/5 European Maritime Day

LIFE’s Executive Secretary, Marta Cavallé, along with LIFE members from Ireland and Cyprus, participated in European Maritime Day in Cork, Ireland.
LIFE was particularly active in its role as coordinator of the Small-Scale Fisheries Working Group within the Energy Transition Partnership (ETP). Marta Cavallé was a key speaker at a workshop organised by the ETP Assistance Mechanism—a session that brought together key stakeholders to shape final policy recommendations guiding the transition to a low-carbon future. The session was opened by DG Charlina Vitcheva (DG MARE), who delivered a strong message on the urgency of achieving climate neutrality.

Meetings followed with Delilah Al Khudhairy (Director, MARE A Unit) and Monica Grosse (JRC). Of particular importance was the Support Group meeting with Commissioner Costas Kadis. Marta acted as spokesperson for the entire Support Group, alongside Vincent Guerre, Coordinator of the Shipbuilding Working Group. In her remarks, she emphasised that small-scale fishers are already at the forefront of the energy transition due to their exceptionally low carbon footprint, and highlighted the need to position them as a central solution in EU policy.

Beyond the challenges of an ageing fleet, workforce, and lack of investment, the most pressing issue for SSF in the energy transition remains the absence of clear future prospects for the sector. A dedicated Action Plan could help secure a viable future for small-scale fishers in Europe and improve alignment with CFP implementation. With substantial financial support, the energy transition could offer an opportunity to modernise the sector, improve working conditions, and attract younger generations.

23/5 LIFE Members from Ireland – IIMRO- meet with EU Commissioner Costas Kadis

IIMRO, LIFE members from Ireland, represented by Aisling Moran and Seamus Bonner met with Minister Timmy Dooley and EU Commissioner Costas Kadis in Castletownbere, Co. Cork, to highlight key issues facing island and coastal communities, especially the small-scale fishing fleet. They stressed the urgent need for generational renewal in the sector, with access to quota being the main barrier for new entrants. Concerns were raised over the pollack fishery closure and its impact on the small boat fleet, including young fishers of the future, like 15-year-old Muireann Kavanagh.

IIMRO also called for fair PO funding, having been refused an allocation following their recognition in 2021 due to Irish Government red tape. Commissioner Kadis acknowledged the challenges, affirmed the importance of small-scale fisheries, and announced an upcoming EU Small Scale Fisheries Dialogue. IIMRO will continue to follow up on these issues throughout the year. 

28/5 ICES advice published

ICES published their advice for the main commercial stocks in the Baltic and the scientific advice recommends that important cod and herring fisheries continue to be closed. LIFE participated in and followed the discussions at the ICES advice drafting group during May and raised concerns that the scientific advice, in its current form, was not able to support a recovery.

Despite the fact that the Baltic fisheries are in bad shape, implementing the ICES advice for the coming year would allow for an increase in catches of more than 70.000 tonnes (17.5%), almost exclusively for the fishmeal and fishoil factories. Quotas will be decided at the October Council and LIFE recommends that Ministers prioritise stock growth and cod recovery by significantly reducing catches of sprat and herring. 

Round Goby: A New Opportunity for Small-Scale Fishers

LIFE, as a key partner, is actively contributing to the Interreg project “Promoting Commercial Fishing of Round Goby in the Baltic Sea” by involving small-scale fishers from Sweden and Germany in test fishing and gear trials. Early findings are promising, showing good catch rates and minimal bycatch. In May, LIFE staff joined chefs, scientists, and fishers in Stockholm to explore ways to diversify seafood consumption. Round Goby impressed high-end chefs with its taste and quality, but high processing costs—due to a lack of infrastructure—remain a barrier. The next project phase will focus on overcoming these challenges by developing sustainable business models that support small-scale fishers.

12/5 Call to reform the agreement with ICES to provide scientific advice for fisheries management

In a letter to Commissioner Kadis, the Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE) call for urgent reform of the European Commission’s agreement with ICES. They stress the need to ensure that scientific advice for fisheries management fully reflects the ambitions of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) — particularly the restoration of fish stocks above Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) levels, and providing support for a resilient, competitive, and sustainable future for Europe’s small-scale fishing sector.

20/5 Event at the European Parliament Highlights the Struggles and Hopes of Small-Scale Fishers in Sweden and the Baltic

An event held at the European Parliament brought attention to the challenges—and potential—of small-scale fisheries in Sweden and the Baltic Sea region. The evening featured a screening of Kingdom of Fish, a beautifully produced film that blends documentary storytelling with a road movie narrative. The filmmaker journeys along Sweden’s west and east coasts, meeting with coastal communities and individuals who are not only aware of the ongoing environmental and social challenges but are also actively engaged in addressing them. The following day, in a panel discussion tackling pressing questions, LIFE was asked: What is the current reality for small-scale fishers in the Baltic Sea region? How many have already been forced to leave the profession—and what are the wider implications for food security in Europe? LIFE Policy Advisor Brian O’Riordan responded that the issue was not so much about those leaving the profession as about those not entering it. Old fishers are stuck with old unprofitable investments unable to leave, whilst new fishers see no prospects with the closure of fishery after fishery. Brian contributed to the general discussions, hosted and supported by Swedish MEPs Emma Wiesner (Renew Europe), Sofie Eriksson (S&D), and Isabella Lövin (The Greens).

The panel set the scene for a Parliamentary visit to Denmark, where tough questions need to be asked to ICES scientists and national authorities on the failure of fisheries management.

28/5 LIFE urges EU decision-makers to place small-scale fishers at the heart of the Ocean Pact

Brussels, 28 May 2025 — In an open letter addressed to the College of Commissioners, the Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE) has called on the European Commission to strengthen its proposed European Ocean Pact by placing small-scale, low-impact fishers at its core. LIFE’s key recommendations include the development of a dedicated Action Plan for Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) to ensure their long-term viability across Europe; formal recognition of the crucial yet often overlooked contributions of women in the sector—a gap in the current draft; and the implementation of stronger protections for marine ecosystems, particularly in the context of the rapidly expanding blue economy. “The Ocean Pact must be fair to fishers, fair to future generations, and fair to nature,” writes LIFE Executive Secretary, Marta Cavallé.

Welcome Aksel!

We are thrilled to welcome Aksel Ydrén, our newest team member, based in Sweden! Aksel brings years of hands-on experience with artisanal fisheries through his work at the Swedish National Center for Artisanal Food Production.

With a strong passion for sustainable, small-scale food systems, Aksel will be working closely with our Baltic and North Sea Coordinator, Christian Tsangarides, with a special focus on the RoundGoby Project. We look forward to the great work ahead.

Coming up:

9-13/6 Nice, France – UNOC Conference in Nice (see above)

11-12/6 Port Władysławowo, Poland – LIFE staff will join the  “Round Goby Study Visit and Project Partner Meeting” during which stakeholders from across the Baltic Sea region will gather to share knowledge and discuss key aspects of the fishery’s development.

18-19/6 Gothenburg, Sweden – LIFE staff will travel to Sweden to meet with Seaglow project partners and strengthen cooperation for the next phase.

25/6 Baltfish Hamburg – Quotas for next year will be the main subject at the Baltic regional management body. This will be the last meeting under the German Presidency, which will be succeeded by Sweden on 1 July. 

26/6: BSAC Excom – The Baltic Sea Advisory Council will also meet to develop advice to the Commission on the quotas for next year. This is largely based on the ICES advice and Baltic Management Plan. 

In the Press

Industrias Pesqueras – LIFE letter to the College of Commissioners:

https://industriaspesqueras.com/noticia.php?id=85084

Oceana’s survey on fishing opportunities in Spain:

https://www.europapress.es/sociedad/noticia-87-espanoles-quiere-gobierno-asigne-mas-cuotas-pescadores-pequena-escala-oceana-20250526010051.html#google_vignette

 https://www.lavanguardia.com/sociedad/20250526/10719456/87-espanoles-quiere-gobierno-asigne-mas-cuotas-pescadores-pequena-escala-oceana-ep-agenciaslv20250526.html

https://www.teleprensa.com/articulo/nacional-3/87-espanoles-quiere-que-gobierno-asigne-mas-cuotas-pescadores-pequena-escala-oceana/202505252302202124710.html

https://www.cantabrialiberal.com/nacional/el-87-de-espanoles-quiere-que-el-gobierno-asigne-mas-cuotas-a-los-pescadores-de-pequena-escala-segun-oceana,768318.html

https://www.diariosigloxxi.com/texto-ep/mostrar/20250526010051/87-espanoles-quiere-gobierno-asigne-cuotas-pescadores-pequena-escala-segun-oceana

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

21/4 LIFE’s Contribution to the CFP Consultation

Earlier this year, the European Commission launched a public consultation to assess the effectiveness of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). This builds on the 2023 “Pact for Fisheries and Oceans” and the 2024 Call for Evidence on the CFP.  As part of this important process, LIFE submitted a detailed response, bringing forward the voices, insights, and concerns of small-scale fishers from across Europe.

Our contribution highlights the challenges faced on the water, the gaps between policy and practice, and the urgent need for a CFP that truly works for low-impact, small-scale fishing communities. 

9/4 LIFE Exchanges with Commissioner Kadis on Fair Policies for Small-Scale Fishers 

9/4 Brussels, Belgium – LIFE President Gwen Pennarun joined LIFE staff to meet with EU Commissioner Kadis and his team, using the opportunity to address the key challenges facing Europe’s small-scale fisheries.. LIFE presented its vision for a fair and sustainable future for the sector, highlighting how the 2024–2029 European Commission mandate could strengthen support for the small-scale fleet. Pennarun was able to share his professional experience of how opportunities to achieve fair fisheries are being squandered through unfair policies and partial implementation of the CFP, providing the concrete examples of Bluefin tuna, pollack, and seabass. He also highlighted his work to train and guide young fishers into the profession, and how partial implementation of the CFP – notably Article 17 – has led to future generations of fishers being discriminated against, albeit unintentionally. 

Discussions covered priority issues such as the implementation of Article 17, SSF engagement through Producer Organisations and Advisory Councils, and the urgent need for more comprehensive, reliable scientific advice, with a review of how MSY and fishing levels are set.

LIFE contributes to the Dialogue on Energy Transition in EU Small-Scale Fisheries

7/4 Brussels, Belgium – The Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) for the EU Fisheries and Aquaculture sector, under the European Commission (DG MARE) held hybrid workshops for the small-scale, large-scale and distant water fleets in the framework of the event “Navigating the Future of EU Fisheries Through Energy Transition”. The first exchange  focused on Small-Scale Coastal Fisheries (SSCF) and was presented by LIFE’s Executive Secretary Marta Cavallé, who is also  coordinator of this working group. Participants explored key challenges and opportunities in the shift to low-emission energy, building on prior ETP sessions and using case studies to guide discussion. 

LIFE Advocates for Small-Scale Fishers at InterAC meeting

8/4 Brussels, Belgium – LIFE staff represented the Baltic Sea Advisory Council at the recent InterAC event, where we participated in a roundtable discussion on the Vision for EU Fisheries in 2040, at the presence of EU Commissioner Costas Kadis. During the session, LIFE underscored the urgent need to enhance access to fish stocks and called on the European Commission to provide stronger support for the small-scale fishing sector—an essential pillar of sustainable and resilient coastal communities.

President Gwen Pennarun and LIFE staff meet French MEP Eric Sargiacomo on Small-Scale Fisheries Priorities

8/4 Brussels, Belgium – President Gwen Pennarun and LIFE staff held a constructive meeting with MEP Eric Sargiacomo (S&D) focused on key issues facing small-scale fishers and coastal communities. Sargiacomo expressed strong support for the men and women who take to the sea each day to provide quality seafood, sustain coastal communities, and preserve traditional knowledge. “They provide an indispensable thread in the social fabric that holds our coastal communities together”, he said. The discussion touched on crucial topics including maritime spatial planning, climate change, fishing opportunities, resource sharing, and fisheries governance—all of which require collaborative action moving forward.

Event in the European Parliament: Small-scale fisheries turning digital: how to do it right?

23/4 Brussels, Belgium – The Fish-X Project, in which LIFE participates, organised its final workshop ahead of the project ending later this year in July. Fish-X has been developing digital tools for vessel monitoring and catch reporting to empower small-scale fishers and which respond to the amended Fisheries Control Regulation. According to the project, digitalisation is not optional, but essential to achieve fair and sustainable fisheries. 

The event, hosted by the EPP and Renew Europe political groups, centred around a panel comprising two small-scale fishers from Croatia and Portugal, MEPs, DG Mare, and technical experts. Opening the discussion, Croatian MEP Zeljana Zovoka, EPP, called for a balanced approach (to fisheries control), highlighting the burden of excessive regulation on the one hand, and the fishers’ lack of a voice on the other. She noted that “digitalisation is a powerful tool, but only if it serves the people”. The meeting was closed by MEP Stéphanie Yon-Courtin, who highlighted how small-scale fisheries is leading in the digital transformation of the fishing sector; that AI will not replace fishers, but will provide an essential tool.

Pioneering a Sustainable Round Goby Fishery in the Baltic Sea

As part of our initiative to develop a commercial round goby fishery in the Baltic Sea, LIFE is funding test fishing operations in Germany and Sweden through mid-June 2025. The aim is to design and evaluate viable fishing gear while working alongside scientists to deepen our understanding of the round goby stock. This work lays the foundation for a sustainable fishery, and LIFE will continue its efforts on this project through 2027.

Coming up:

12-15/5 ICES Baltic advice drafting group

LIFE staff will attend as an observer the ICES advice drafting group for Baltic Sea stocks. Scientists present their findings from annual surveys and their advice for next year regarding the development and recommendations for each fish stock. 

19-20/4 The next PECH meeting will take place on Monday, 19 May 2025, 15:00 to 18:30 (tbc) and Tuesday, 20 May 2025, 09:00 to 12:30 & 14:30 to 18:30 in the room SPAAK 5B1 (Brussels).

21-23/4 European Maritime Days (Cork): LIFE will attend the EMD,  the place where ‘Ocean Leaders Meet’. It provides an engaging and interactive experience to catch up on the current state of play on a broad range of issues concerning the blue economy and the marine environment and to discuss ways of moving forward.

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

LIFE Swedish Members Urge EU Commissioner to Take Action on Baltic Sea Crisis

27/3 Simrishamn, Sweden – LIFE representatives Bengt Larsson (SYEF) and Stefan Nordin (Kustfiskarna Bottenhavet PO) met with EU Fisheries Commissioner Costas Kadis in Simrishamn, Sweden, to highlight the Baltic Sea’s ecological decline and the urgent need to protect small-scale fisheries.

The meeting was organized in the framework of the visits of Commissioner Kadis to fishing communities on the ground, initiated by Swedish MEPs and hosted by the Marine Centre, brought together MEPs, fishers, scientists, environmental groups, and officials. Larsson called for science-based quota reductions, stressing that “we can survive low quotas, but not more closures,” referencing the ineffective cod fishing ban since 2019.

Research from BalticWaters showed cod stocks can recover with better food access, but the ongoing overfishing and poor management of prey species like herring and sprat continues to undermine the ecosystem and prospects for the fishery. Commissioner Kadis acknowledged the urgency and announced a Baltic-wide Ministerial Meeting for September.

LIFE thanks the Velux Foundation for supporting its work toward sustainable fisheries in the region.

Make Fishing Fair: Small-Scale Fishers Bring their Fight for Justice to Brussels

25/3 Brussels – LIFE members gathered at the European Parliament to demand fairness in fisheries management. Hosted by MEPs Isabella Lövin, Emma Fourreau, and Luke Ming Flanagan, and co-organised by LIFE and Blue Ventures, the event tackled the ongoing injustices facing the EU’s “forgotten fleet” – the small-scale fishing operators.

With the EU currently reviewing the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), discussions focused on the failure to implement Article 17, which calls for transparent and objective quota allocation based on environmental, social, and economic criteria. MEPs and fishers called out the dominance of industrial fleets and the use of “catch history” to allocate quota, and the lack of transparency. They urged that guidelines be established with a binding implementation plan to support low-impact fishers. Article 17 has the potential to provide a fair access to resources for small-scale and low impact fishers and a mechanism to reward those who are committed to sustainability and whose activity generates the highest social benefits. Its implementation could enable a progressive transition over the years and provide a true incentive for making sustainable fisheries a reality.

With the EU Ocean Pact and third UN Ocean Conference now in sight, the call was clear: make fishing fair—now.  More information in our official press release. 

LIFE’s Executive Secretary Marta Cavallé Walks the Talk at POLITICO Europe Event: Small-scale Fisheries have a Preeminent Role to Play in the Future of EU Ocean Policy 

3/3 Brussels – LIFE’s Executive Secretary, Marta Cavallé, recently took part in Politico Europe’s high-level event, “Walking the Talk on the European Oceans Pact” alongside EU Commissioner Costas Kadis, MEP Isabella Lövin, and other key voices in the ocean policy space.

Marta delivered a compelling masterclass on the crucial role of small-scale, low-impact fishers—emphasizing that they are not only part of Europe’s cultural heritage but also potential game changers in addressing environmental challenges, securing livelihoods, and anchoring resilient coastal economies.

She highlighted that there are no “win-win” solutions when it comes to expanding the blue economy, warning that not all maritime activities are compatible and that they have different impacts on the oceans.The need for trade-offs must be acknowledged—particularly between food and energy security on the one hand and maintaining a healthy oceans on the other.

Marta reinforced LIFE’s call for the creation of a 12-mile regenerative zone, reserved for low-impact fishing and managed through co-management regimes, as a necessary step to offset and mitigate the pressures of blue economy expansion.

The event helped put small-scale fishers firmly on the EU ocean agenda at a pivotal time in shaping sustainable ocean governance.

Listed Ports Exemptions: A Glaring Lacuna in EU Fisheries Control Regulation

10/3 online – LIFE has published an article raising concerns over a recent derogation introduced through the EU Fisheries Control Regulation Implementing Act. Just months after stricter catch reporting rules were adopted, a new Implementing Act exempts vessels landing unsorted catches in as yet undisclosed “Listed Ports,” weakening the regulation’s core aim of accurate, species-level reporting.

The measure benefits large-scale industrial fleets and risks repeating past policy failures, such as the ineffective Landing Obligation, by enabling continued misreporting and undermining transparency.

LIFE calls for urgent clarification, enforcement, and fair application of the rules across all fleet segments to safeguard fish stocks and ensure accountability.

European Ocean Days: an opportunity to raise the profile of small-scale fisheries

3/3 Brussels – LIFE took part in European Ocean Days in Brussels organised by the European Commission—a dynamic week of events focused on shaping the future of Europe’s ocean policy. Representing the Seaglow project, LIFE joined Day 2 of the Mission Restore Our Ocean and Waters Forum at Charlemagne, spotlighting innovative, scalable solutions and reviewing progress toward the EU’s 2030 ocean restoration targets. Discussions emphasized collaboration with local authorities, private sectors, and regions to scale impact.

The following day, LIFE participated in the Fisheries and Oceans Dialogues, central to co-designing the European Ocean Pact. This key session gathered stakeholders to build a roadmap toward a healthy ocean, a sustainable blue economy, and stronger marine knowledge.Together with partners CAOPA and the CFFA, LIFE amplified the voices of small-scale fishers, stressing their vital role in sustaining marine ecosystems and coastal communities. 

LIFE at Fish-X Conference: Advancing the Digital Future of EU Fisheries

18/3 Online – LIFE attended the Fish-X Conference + Expo, where the Fish-X Roadmap for Digital Transformation of EU Fisheries until 2030 was launched. The event highlighted new digital tools like the Fish-X Dataspace & Insight Platform, aimed at supporting the updated EU Fisheries Control and CMO Regulations.

Discussions emphasized the need for a shared, actionable plan to ensure effective digitalisation rollout and adoption across all fisheries sectors. LIFE appreciates that small-scale fishers are considered central in this digital shift and digitalisation responds to their specific needs.

Attendees also engaged with Fish-X partners through virtual expo booths and pre-booked meetings.

ETP SSF working group second meeting 

27/03 Online – LIFE organised the 2nd meeting of the SSF Working Group of the Energy Transition, focused on the “technological solutions, research and innovation gaps”. Following the conclusions of the previous meeting, a panel of speakers was invited to help attendeesbetter understand the state of play of technological solutions and best practices for energy transition in the SSF sector. Facilitated exchanges between fishers and engineers were highly productive, putting forward  key recommendations, including the need to accelerate the prototype design phase, through a localised and participatory approach. Next meeting will take place on April 28th, focusing on the regulatory framework, monitoring and finance.    

Coming up:

7/4 Brussels: Workshop: “Navigating the future of EU Fisheries through the energy transition”

8-9/4 Brussels: Inter-AC meeting: Vision for EU fisheries in 2040 and Dialogue with DG MARE on key fisheries topics related to the CFP

9/4 Brussels: PECH Committee meeting

23/4 Brussels: Event in the EP organised by WWF “Small-scale fisheries turning digital: how to do it right?”

28-30/4 Poland: EU Mission Oceans & Waters Mission Arena 4

Press review:

Make fishing fair event:

Fishing Daily

Industrias Pesqueras

The Skipper

Fisker Forum 

We are aquaculture

Mundus Maris

Control regulation

Industrias Pesqueras

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

COMING UP: LIFE and Blue Ventures, with the support of MEPs Isabella Lövin (the Greens/EFA), Emma Fourreau, and Luke Ming Flanagan (The Left), are organizing the event “Make Fishing Fair: Unlocking Art. 17 for a Just Fishing Future” on March 25th from 12:00 to 14:30 at the European Parliament in Brussels. The event will feature guest speakers, including LIFE members from France, Ireland, and Sweden, MEPs Paulo di Nascimento Cabral (EPP) and Karin Karlsbro (Renew) and representatives from the EU Commission/DG Mare D3 unit. Register here. 

LIFE’s Newly elected President Gwen Pennarun takes the floor at the High-level “Ocean Pact” meeting with Commissioner Kadis

20/2 – LIFE’s newly elected President, Gwen Pennarun, spoke at the High-Level Roundtable “Fisheries and Oceans Dialogue – Helping Design the European Oceans Pact” organized by the European Commission’s DG MARE. With the participation of Commissioner Costas Kadis and key decision-makers, the discussion focused on the need to foster a broader, integrated and holistic approach to EU ocean governance, biodiversity protection, sustainable growth in the blue economy, and the need to strengthen marine knowledge and support coastal communities.

This event followed two intensive days at the European Parliament, where LIFE staff and Gwen Pennarun engaged with MEPs and attended the PECH Committee meeting to advocate for low-impact small-scale fisheries. Discussions covered small-scale fisheries in the EU, Article 17, and upcoming EU and international fisheries initiatives. Some MEPs raised concerns about the need for a binding framework for fair quota allocation, the depletion of Baltic stocks due to large-scale interests, and the importance of integrating traditional ecological knowledge into fisheries management. LIFE remains committed to ensuring small-scale fishers have a strong voice in EU decision-making.

Exchange on Small-Scale Fisheries in the EU and Article 17 in the European Parliament

19/2 – The Pech Committee of the European Parliament had an exchange with DG Mare on small-scale fisheries in the EU and Article 17 of the CFP basic Regulation. Key takeaways: the Commission does not see a clear role to play in implementing Article 17, but are committed to publishing a Vademecum on Article 17 and driving improvements so long as their role allows for that. Several MEPs commented on the need for a new definition of SSF – including tonnage and size beyond vessel length. One MEP warned about putting SSF against the larger scale sector (LSF) in obtaining quota, whilst another highlighted that Article 17 looked fine on paper, but the reality was that LSF had concentrated most of the quota and there was none available to transfer to SSF. There were also calls for “proper and fair” quota allocation and access to EMFAF funding for SSF from MEPs. 

Building Global Alliances: LIFE Executive Secretary travels to Sri Lanka 

24-26/2 – LIFE’s Executive Secretary, Marta Cavallé, was invited to attend the International Workshop “Strengthening Collaboration and Capacity-Building in Small-scale Fisheries”, held in Sri Lanka and organised by the International Collective in Support of Fishworkers (ICSF). With more than 60 participants from Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe, the workshop was a great opportunity to strengthen collaborations and alliances between the SSF movements across the globe and draft a strategy to enhance capacity and support. On the first day, Marta Cavallé presented to the global audience the results of the collective European Regional YAFA workshop held in 2022 with ICSF and Mulleres Salgadas. In particular, she highlighted the main challenges for the European SSF sector and the related final statement and call to action. The statement laid the groundwork for broader reflection on collective action within the global SSF movement and highlighted shared goals.

Advancing the Energy Transition in Small-Scale Fisheries: Insights from the First Working Group Meeting

10/2 – The first meeting of the Working Group for SSF within the Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) aimed to introduce the European Commission Initiative to the group, familiarize participants with one another, and conduct an initial brainstorming session on the Energy Transition. Coordinated by LIFE, this meeting marked the first in a series of four, designed to provide concrete recommendations to the European Commission for developing an actionable Energy Transition plan by early 2026.

The meeting brought together 16 small-scale fishers and their representatives from 13 different countries, some of whom are actively engaged in projects and have experience in the field. It served as a platform to highlight key challenges and opportunities while beginning to identify the primary human, technical, financial, and regulatory barriers and enablers necessary for the SSF sector’s Energy Transition.

The next meeting, scheduled for March 27, will focus on technical and research gaps. Experts in the field, along with fishers already advancing case studies and solutions, will be invited to gain deeper insights into the current state of Energy Transition technologies in small-scale fisheries.

Multi-AC workshop on the Control Regulation

5/2 – LIFE participated in the NWWAC workshop on the Control Regulation and later sought clarification on two key points. The Commission discussed developing a catch reporting app, prompting requests for details on its design, functionality, trial locations, and implementation timeline. Clarification was also sought on listed ports receiving a margin of tolerance derogation. Questions focused on how these ports improve species composition data in unsorted mixed landings, the tools ensuring species catch weights remain within a 10% margin, and whether the Commission has compared these methods with modern control techniques like DNA testing.

LIFE Board of Directors Elects New President and Sets Future Priorities

12/2 – The LIFE Board of Directors met to elect a new President, as Christian Decugis stepped down after 7 years of leadership (since November 2018). Following discussions and a show of hands, Gwen Pennarun from Brittany, France, was elected, marking the start of a new chapter in LIFE’s advocacy for small-scale fishers.

The Board reviewed LIFE’s 2025 budget, with the staff presenting the key planned activities and underpinning financial resources available. Discussions then focused on priorities for the Xth Legislature, including LIFE’s position on the European Oceans Pact, a proposal for a Small-Scale Fisheries Advisory Council (SSF AC) and its potential role, and the evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and the pros and cons of its reform.

This meeting reinforced LIFE’s strategic direction, ensuring small-scale fishers remain at the heart of EU policy discussions.

Eurobarometer: Shifting Trends in Seafood Consumption Across Europe

Latest Eurobarometer report finds that seafood consumption in Europe has declined since 2021, with only one-third of respondents eating fishery and aquaculture products weekly—a 4% drop—while 15% never consume them at home.

Price is now the top factor in purchasing decisions (55%), overtaking product appearance. Economic pressures are driving a shift toward frozen and tinned products over fresh seafood. Coastal residents consume more fish and prefer wild-caught products, while landlocked consumers show less concern about production methods.

Labeling remains important, with 69% valuing the date of catch or harvest. However, interest in environmental labeling has declined by 8 percentage points.

For the first time, the survey examined seaweed and algae consumption. While not yet mainstream, two-thirds have tried algae products in the past year, mainly in sushi, with half enjoying the taste and one-third recognizing health benefits.

The Shocking Costs of Electrification

LIFE’s Senior Adviser, Jeremy Percy, attended a presentation of a fishing vessel electrification project. A key issue he highlights is the cost of converting existing fishing vessels from fossil fuel to battery power. Two major costs are administrative fees – around 15% of the total costs for the “red tape” required to obtain the necessary vessel certification and registration; and around 30% for labour – in this case, the time spent converting the boat by the fisher himself. Although he received a 60% grant, it did not cover either of these costs. On a positive note, our Senior Adviser commented that “much of the hardware costs are already coming down and the efficiency of electric motors, battery storage and solar panels is improving all the time.”

In the press

Seaglow in Eurofish Magazine Issue 1 2025

The Fishing Daily: MEP Flanagan demands fairer treatment for small-scale fishers

The Fishing Daily: Gwen Pennarun elected as LIFE President

Danish public radio (DR) on the misuse of EMFAF sustainability funds 

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

EU Launches Review of Fisheries Policy, Seeks Stakeholder Input

The European Commission has opened a public consultation on the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) to assess its effectiveness over the past decade. Stakeholders can provide input until 21 April. This review, part of Commissioner Costas Kadis’ mandate to complete and follow up on a comprehensive evaluation of the CFP, aims to improve sustainable fisheries management and marine conservation. In parallel, it also launched a call for evidence to shape the European Oceans Pact, seeking to foster a broader, integrated and holistic approach to ocean governance across all sectors, including both internal and external policies. Deadline for input is 17 February.

The Commission also launched the Competitiveness Compass, a strategy to enhance the EU’s sustainable economic growth. Key actions include innovation (AI and technology adoption to boost industry); decarbonization (lower energy costs and an Industrial Decarbonization Accelerator Act) and resilience (securing resources via Clean Trade and Investment Partnerships). By modernizing policies and strengthening competitiveness, the EU aims to secure a greener, more resilient economy.

LIFE Calls for Fairer Fisheries Management in 10th Legislature Manifesto Meetings with MEPs

LIFE is holding a series of meetings with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), their assistants, and advisors from across key political groups, including the EPP, S&D, GUE/NGL, and Renew. The purpose is to present and raise awareness about LIFE’s Manifesto for the 10th Legislature—a document outlining LIFE’s priority topics and proposed solutions to address the challenges faced by small-scale fisheries.

The Manifesto highlights practical pathways to improve the sector while aligning with the current and upcoming political processes, such as the Evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and the new European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). These discussions emphasize the urgent need to implement policies that empower small-scale fishers and ensure sustainable and equitable fisheries management.

LIFE Supports Swedish Proposal for Trawl Closure in Baltic Herring Waters

2/12 – LIFE welcomes the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management’s (SWAM) draft project to close central Baltic herring coastal waters to trawling. Presented in September 2024, the project aims to assess if spatial fisheries management can improve declining herring stocks along the Swedish coast. LIFE supports this initiative as a step towards a healthier Baltic ecosystem. The proposed trawl closure entered into force on 1 February 2025 and will continue until the end of April 2027.

Importance of Short Value Chains and Traceability highlighted at “Follow the Fish” Event

3/12 – LIFE participated in “Follow the Fish”, an event held at the European Parliament organised by Oceana. LIFE Executive Secretary Marta Cavallé took the floor to highlight the need for EU labelling regulations to be as stringent for imported and processed products asthey are for fresh and frozen EU products, and the importance of improved visibility of SSF products, alternative food systems, short value chains, and traceability—key measures that benefit both consumers and fishers by ensuring transparency and fairer prices for small-scale fishers. Moderated by MEP Thomas Bajada, who signed the Follow the Fish statement live during the session, the event filled the room with key stakeholders. Attendees included European Commission officials, MEPs and their teams, Follow the Fish signatories, and seafood industry representatives.

New European Commission Working Group on Small-Scale Fisheries in the Energy Transition coordinated by LIFE Executive Secretary 

11/12 – The European Commission organised a workshop, titled “Navigating the Energy Transition: Strategic Goals for Resilient and Sustainable Fisheries Fleet,” held in a hybrid mode, to present the Energy Transition Partnership Support Group. Marta Cavallé gave an overview of the aims of the Small-Scale Coastal Fisheries working group. The meeting provided an excellent opportunity to engage with sectoral group members, while fostering connections with other stakeholders working towards a greener and more sustainable fisheries sector.

As the group’s coordinator, Marta Cavallé will lead efforts to foster collaboration, address critical challenges, share knowledge in light to shape the roadmap to support small-scale fisheries in the energy transition, with the goal of achieving climate-neutrality by 2050. The next meeting of the Small-Scale Support Group is scheduled to take place on 10 February in digital format, and another 3 more meetings of the working group will follow until June 2025.  More information about the Energy Transition Partnership Support Group are available here. 

Plastic Pellet Spill in Spain: Urgent Call for Action

16/12 LIFE, together with Ecologistas en Acción, Mulleres Salgadas, Surfrider España, Good Karma Projects, Noia Limpa, and The Pew Charitable Trusts, joined in calling for the adoption of stricter regulations to prevent pellet spills in Spain. These measures include ambitious policies to strengthen the production, handling, and transportation of plastic pellets.

LIFE General Assembly 2024

19/12 – The LIFE General Assembly served as a platform to address the challenges and opportunities facing Europe’s small-scale fishers. Discussions centred on LIFE’s 2024 work plan and the key priorities for the Xth Legislature, with members actively contributing reflections and feedback to shape the organisation’s focus for the year ahead. The Assembly concluded with the approval of LIFE’s 2023 financial accounts. 

LIFE Comments on DG MARE’s “Fishers of the Future” Report

14/1 – The DG MARE “Fishers of the Future” report, recently presented in Brussels, explores four potential scenarios for the fishing sector, addressing challenges like climate change and market shifts. LIFE’s Policy Advisor applauded the effort to look at the future of the sector and its generational renewal but was concerned about the oversimplification of the resulting report, and highlighted critical gaps, including overfishing, spatial squeeze from offshore renewables, poor working conditions driving out-migration, and overlooked impacts of marine litter and microplastics. These factors threaten fisheries’ sustainability and the appeal of fishing as a livelihood for future generations.

ICES stakeholder meetings, MIAC and MIACO

22-24/1 – LIFE attended the annual stakeholder meeting organised between ICES and the Advisory Councils. Concerns were raised that the advice requesters at the EU Commission, seem to have instructed ICES to delay their work on rebuilding fish stocks, see p.27. 

ICES underlined their wish to have active engagement from a wide range of stakeholders and have transparent procedures in place which allow for participation. They highlighted their workshop on Nature Restoration and Recovery on 3-7 March and their working group on stakeholder engagement that will take place on 25-27 March as opportunities to participate in their work. 

Workshop on Producer Organisations (POs) organised by the Markets and South West Waters ACs

28/1 – Fish POs have been around since the late 1970s, whilst aquaculture POs are more recent. Together there are 210 of them. The Common Market Organisation (CMO) states that fishery and aquaculture POs are “THE key to achieving the objectives of the CFP and the CMO” and “should take into account the special characteristics of SSF.” This MAC and SWW Advisory Council organised workshop focussed on the functioning of POs and in particular the use of “Production and Marketing Plans” (PMPs). 

The workshop highlighted the heavy reliance of POs and PMPs on EMFF/ EMFAF funds, and that there is often a vicious circle between funds not arriving on time and PMPs failing to achieve their objectives. Several participants also highlighted the problem of short-termism: POs are tied into yearly plans and reporting rather than developing longer term strategies. It was also commented that often fishers are focussed on planning days or weeks ahead, and it’s difficult for them to plan longer into the future due to so many uncertainties. 

Whilst most interventions highlighted the positive role and performance of POs, Jareck Jaroslaw, the BSAC Chair, drew attention to the failing state of POs in the Baltic alongside the failure of many stocks. He cited the closure of cod and salmon fisheries, reduction in pelagic quota and reliance on flat fish. POs he said, face the end of their existence. In the case of the Baltic, funding for the POs should not be based on volume or value of fish landings but on the survival of the fisheries. He felt that particular attention should be given to small-scale fishers. 

This echoes LIFE’s call for POs to be set up dedicated to the interests of SSF- as part of a differentiated approach; such interests are often overlooked in mixed organisations. 

Advancing Digital Innovation in Small-Scale Fisheries: Fish-X 3rd Business Architecture Workshop

31/1 The 3rd Business Architecture Workshop of the Fish-X Project brought together fishers, practitioners, maritime authorities, and researchers to explore the role of digital tools in transforming small-scale fisheries. The online event showcased live demonstrations of Fish-X’s innovative platforms, including the Dataspace, Insight Platform, and Traceability Platform. Participants had the opportunity to engage in discussions, provide valuable feedback, and contribute to the refinement of these tools aimed at promoting sustainability and efficiency within the sector. The workshop also included updates on the progress of the Fish-X Project and explored the next steps toward the sustainable transformation of small-scale fisheries. The Fish X Closing Conference and Expo is scheduled for 18 March 2025 and registrations will soon be available at https://fish-x.eu/

Coming up

17/2 Deadline to contribute to the call for evidence to shape the European Oceans Pact launched by the European Commission

21/2 Fisheries and Oceans Dialogue, Brussels: LIFE will attend the High-level roundtable on the European Oceans Pact, hosted by Commissioner Costas Kadis. It will provide a platform to contribute to shaping a holistic and inclusive approach to ocean governance and sustainable fisheries.

In the press

EMFAF

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jan/21/eu-artisanal-shellfish-fishers-spain-italy-warming-seas-climate

https://www.elsaltodiario.com/cambio-climatico/fondos-europeos-salvar-mariscadores-crisis

Pellets issue in Spain

https://21noticias.com/2024/12/13/un-ano-despois-da-vertedura-de-pelets-en-galicia-a-contaminacion-por-microplasticos-segue-sendo-un-desafio-urxente/

LIFE Member FSK 

https://www.fiskerbladet.dk/baeredygtighed-danmark-fiskeri/nye-ideer-pa-et-solidt-fundament/1885482

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

LIFE Welcomes Swedish Initiative on Baltic Sea Fisheries Management

LIFE Baltic members welcome the Swedish government’s assignment to the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management (SwAM) to pilot a scientific project on spatial management for pelagic fishing in the Baltic Sea.

The initiative was presented in the framework of the Baltic Sea Advisory Council works for comments by the membership. It focuses on monitoring herring stocks to evaluate biomass, stock structure, and size trends while distinguishing fisheries impacts from other environmental factors. A proposed study area in the Central Baltic Sea will test annual restrictions on Sweden-flagged vessels using towed gear for pelagic fishing, with exemptions for vessels under 24 meters targeting fish for human consumption.

LIFE supports this proactive, holistic approach to strengthen fisheries knowledge and management and sustain both fish stocks and coastal communities. Additional details on LIFE’s position are available here. 

European Parliament Approves New College of Commissioners

Following a robust debate with Ursula von der Leyen on her new team and programme, on 27 November the European Parliament voted to approve the College of Commissioners. The results saw 370 MEPs in favor, 282 against, and 36 abstentions. Ahead of the vote, President von der Leyen reaffirmed her commitment to Parliament’s priorities, noting the portfolio adjustments made during the evaluation process. 

One of the key appointments within the new Commission is Mr. Costas Kadis, Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, who secured backing from the European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries (PECH) following his hearing on 6 November.

Nominated by the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Kadis showcased his expertise and readiness to address the challenges of his portfolio and explained how he will address his  Mission Letter, including climate change, invasive species, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, marine pollution, unauthorized shipping, fisheries science, the blue economy, and Marine Spatial Planning.

The Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE) warmly welcome Mr. Kadis’s appointment. He has pledged to prioritize the needs of small-scale fisheries by working to ensure equitable access to marine resources, enhanced sectoral support, and improved market opportunities. This commitment aims to strengthen the competitiveness and resilience of small-scale fishers across Europe.

Additionally, Mr. Kadis underlined the importance of optimising the use of Article 17 of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), an often-overlooked mechanism that promotes sustainability, incentivizes best practices, and advances social equity.

LIFE looks forward to collaborating closely with him and his team to advance shared objectives aligned with our Manifesto for sustainable and equitable fisheries.

LIFE to Coordinate  Discussions on Energy Transition  for Small-Scale Fisheries

LIFE Executive Secretary, Marta Cavallé, has been appointed to coordinate the Small-Scale Fisheries Working Group under the Energy Transition Partnership (ETP).

Launched by the European Commission (DG Mare) last year,  DG Mare is now creating a Support Group, made up of 10 coordinators, whose role is essential in fostering the exchange of inputs, recommendations, and best practices within the sector. As a bottom-up advisory and consultative body, these Coordinators will play a pivotal role in assisting the European Commission by providing insights and guiding the development of the Energy Transition roadmap—an actionable plan to be delivered by the end of 2025, with measurable milestones aimed at supporting the transition to a sustainable future.

To ensure that small-scale fisheries are at the forefront of a sustainable and inclusive energy transition, LIFE is committed to engaging fishers directly in the process. By gathering insights, addressing challenges, and facilitating the exchange of best practices, LIFE aims to advocate for an equitable transition that reflects the needs and realities of small-scale fishers across Europe.

This role also complements LIFE’s work in Seaglow, an EU-funded project demonstrating innovative low-carbon technologies for small-scale fishing vessels of which LIFE is partner. By integrating insights from and for both initiatives, LIFE aims to drive practical and sustainable energy solutions for the sector.

Registration is  open for the first workshop, “Navigating the Energy Transition: Strategic Goals for a Resilient and Sustainable Small-Scale Coastal Fisheries,” which will take place on 11 December 2024, from 9:30 to 13:30 in Brussels and online.

LIFE Staff Attend Re-Launch of Parliament Recreational Fisheries Forum

On 13 November 2024, LIFE Brussels staff attended the relaunch of the European Parliament’s Forum on Recreational Fisheries and Aquatic Environment. The event, chaired by MEP Michal Wiezik (Renew Europe), focused on the socio-economic and environmental benefits of the EU’s recreational fisheries sector. Mark Owen (EAA President) and Gerard Bakkenes (EFTTA Chair) outlined key challenges and opportunities for the sector over the next five years. The event also provided an excellent networking opportunity, to meet new MEPs, and to discuss the mutual interests of small-scale fishers and recreational fisheries.

RoundGoby Project Partners meet in Gdańsk

LIFE Baltic and North Sea Coordinator attended the second in-person meeting of the RoundGoby project in Gdańsk. The meeting included updates on pilot activities and the development and marketing of Round Goby products as both human and pet food.

A side-event featured tastings of Round Goby chips and prototypes of canned, minced products, developed by Kaunas University of Technology and Baltijos Konservai. Swedish partners also showcased Round Goby burgers, and a chef team from Kalmar kommun prepared innovative dishes.

Open calls for proposals

Deadline 11/12: Algae Accelerator

A six-month mentorship programme designed to help businesses in the algae value chain refine their strategies, address industry challenges, and bring sustainable alternatives to market.

Deadline 13/12: Second Cycle of Technical Assistance to Support Communities of Actors to Achieve the EU Mission: Restore our Ocean and Waters Objectives

The technical assistance supports selected applicants in strengthening actions aligned with the Mission Ocean and Waters targets. It offers tailored expert support, including technical assessments and feasibility studies, covering regulatory, technical, economic, operational, environmental, and commercial aspects.

Coming up

3/12 in Brussels: In person event in the European Parliament hosted by MEP Thomas Bajada on the “Follow the Fish” Statement: speakers from civil society, the food industry and seafood companies will discuss the importance of having more information on the fish EU consumers eat. Registration is accessible here.

4-5/12 in Brussels and online: LIFE staff will attend the next PECH meeting. Topics on the agenda include a Workshop on “The future of the EU fishing fleet − First assessment of Member States’ EMFAF programmes for 2021-27”, organised by Policy Department B and a Public Hearing on How scientific advice is developed for EU Fisheries Policy decisions. Works will be boradcasted here. 

9/12 online: LIFE Policy Advisor, Brian O’Riordan, will take the floor in this webinar organised by ClientEarth on the energy transition of EU fisheries and focusing on presenting the report “Capacity Ceilings in EU Fisheries: Obstacle or Opportunity for the Decarbonisation Process?”. Registration is accessible here.

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

Making a Meal out of Baltic Sea Fisheries

On 23 October 2024 the AgriFish Council reached an agreement on fishing opportunities in the Baltic Sea for 2025. In doing so, they negotiated a package that leaves around  90% of the fishing quotas for the unsorted mixed pelagic catch fleet segment which reduces catches to fishmeal and oil. The agreement also allows the trawler fleet to take a bycatch of cod along with their plaice quota, but leaves the small-scale low impact fleet to eke out a living on plaice and flounder, along with a tokenistic western herring quota.  

Once again, the need for fish stock growth to sustain the coastal fishery was ignored. The cod fisheries will remain closed, as has been the case since 2019, but rebuilding the stock through increased prey availability of sprat and herring was not prioritised. The sprat quota was reduced by less than recommended by the Commission and ICES while the central Baltic herring quota was increased by 108%, on the basis that the average weight of herring has increased leaving the stock above critical biomass levels. 

Meanwhile, in the Bothnian Sea the herring quota was increased 21% despite the fact that the quota has not been exhausted for the past three years. Coastal fishermen and anglers had called for a significant reduction in order to increase the stock biomass and also ensure sufficient prey availability for the wild salmon stocks that depend on herring for their growth. 

Ocean Week 2024 in Brussels celebrates Europe’s Seas  

Ocean week took place in Brussels – a week of debates, exhibitions and other events to celebrate Europe’s seas and explore how to rebuild their abundance. The focus was on building momentum for sustainable fisheries, driving climate resilience and uplifting coastal communities. LIFE members and staff have been actively engaged in several initiatives, including: 

• 30/9 We stand for transparent and fair fishing – a photographic exhibition

A powerful photographic exhibition where LIFE Members from Denmark (David Lange, FSK), Ireland (Muireann and Neily Kavanagh, IIMRO) and Spain (Primitivo Pedrosa), called on national governments, newly-elected Members of the European Parliament, and the European Commission to ensure fairer and more transparent fishing practices. Through captivating imagery in both photographic and video format, the initiative highlighted the realities faced by the small-scale fleet and underscored the need for equitable and transparent allocation of fishing opportunities across Europe. 

• 1/10 Rethink Fisheries! For Thriving Seas and Communities

Fisheries stakeholders gathered on the esplanade in front of the European Parliament as part of the “Rethink Fisheries: For Thriving Seas and Communities” event. LIFE members Gwen Pennarun (Brittany Handliners, France), Muireann Kavanagh (IIMRO, Ireland), and Isaac Moya Bofill (Empescat, Spain) featured as panellists in the “Make Fishing Fair” panel. They spoke about the challenges faced by small-scale fishers, from restrictive access to local species to resource depletion and unsuitable market regulations. Their discussions underscored the urgent need for fairer, sustainable approaches to resource management and industry practices.

• 2/10 Ocean lab – MEPs: meet the ocean 

Organised by BirdLife and Surfrider, Ocean Lab provided  an opportunity for MEPs and their teams to meet with stakeholders of the marine and fisheries sectors in a speed dating style format and to share perspectives on the following key topics: Fisheries and Food, Sustainable Blue Economy and Just Transition, Energy Transition, Biodiversity and Climate Change, Pollution and Health. LIFE staff, Jerry Percy, LIFE Senior Advisor, and Gwen Pennarun, LIFE Director, attended to provide insights on small-scale fisheries issues.

• 3/10 Driving the Energy Transition and Climate Resilience in EU Fisheries

Organised by Oceana and Client Earth, the event focused on the shift to low-impact and low-carbon practices to align the fisheries sector with the EU’s broader 2050 climate neutrality goals. LIFE was invited to be part of a panel, providing a small-scale fisheries perspective on the issues arising from the energy transition to a zero carbon emissions economy. 

• 3/10 Balancing nature, climate and people at sea: Nature-positive offshore wind

LIFE was on the panel of this event organised by WWF in the European Parliament. Topics on the agenda included the development of new offshore wind infrastructures to meet the Paris Agreement and co-existence with other industries. LIFE underscored, inter alia, the need to place small-scale fisheries at the heart of the Blue economy development strategy.  This fleet segment provides a sustainable source of food and employment to coastal communities; it is therefore vital to protect it from displacement and spatial squeezing.  Independent environmental, social and economic impact assessments of offshore wind farms are also urgently needed, alongside inclusive Maritime Spatial Planning. 

Preserving Heritage while Advocating Change: III Congreso Internacional de la Pesca Artesanal in Conil

Held in the historic fishing town of Conil, the III Congreso Internacional de la Pesca Artesanal (9-11/10) organised by the organisation OPP72 and the Red Iberoamericana de Pesca Artesanal de Pequeña Escala (RIPAPE) brought together more than a hundred participants from 30 countries, mainly small-scale fishers, researchers, and policymakers. This congress celebrated the small-scale fishing heritage, shared knowledge on sustainable practices, and provided a forum to discuss the current and future challenges facing small-scale fisheries. The agenda tackled three main topics: climate change and its effects on small-scale fisheries; governance systems, co-management and fishing rights; and food sovereignty in the context of the burgeoning blue economy. LIFE Executive Secretary, Marta Cavallé, in addition to LIFE members Luis Rodriguez and Macarena Molina, attended the Congress, highlighting the importance of stronger cooperation of small-scale fisheries networks, and organisations across the globe, to represent and create space for small-scale fisheries at international level, and to advocate for fair policies. 

Shaping a Digital Future for Small-Scale Fisheries: Fish-X 6th Working Group Meeting

The Fish-X 6th Working Group Meeting, Small-Scale Fisheries Speak Out: Shaping a Digital Future for Their Needs (25/10), brought LIFE Members, LIFE staff and Fish X project partners together to discuss digital innovation tailored to the needs of small-scale fisheries, ensuring they can play an active role within the digital transition. The meeting provided small-scale fisheries representatives with a platform to voice their needs, concerns, challenges and opportunities around digitalization, and discuss solutions and how FishX digital tools can be adapted to their specific requirements. A key takeaway was the need to develop tools not exclusively focusing on control and enforcement as the driver of digitalisation. Building on the UK experience with CatchApp,  Jerry Percy, LIFE Senior Advisor, highlighted as key aspects for successful small-scale fisheries-friendly digital tools early engagement, codevelopment of solutions, simple fit for purpose equipment, robust procurement processes supported by initial and ongoing grant funding, extensive capacity building processes for all stakeholders and field testing prior to implementation .

Galician Women Shellfish Gatherers Disheartened as Protection Bill for Traditional Fishing Rejected by PP

LIFE Member Mulleres Salgadas, representing women shellfish gatherers in the Coruña and Pontevedra area, has expressed disappointment after the Galician Popular Party (PP) rejected a Popular Legislative Initiative (Iniciativa Legislativa Popular – ILP) aimed at enhancing legal protections for traditional fishing, shellfishing, and mussel farming. The ILP, championed by various local fishing and women’s organizations, along with unions and municipalities, sought to classify these activities as “of general interest,” which would prioritize them over competing maritime developments, such as offshore wind projects. Proponents argued that this recognition is crucial to safeguard the sector amid declining shellfish and mussel yields and to protect it from environmental threats and competing industries. The PP argued that current coastal laws already cover these concerns, rendering additional protections unnecessary. This stance has sparked criticism from opposition members, who emphasize the economic and cultural significance of Galicia’s fishing industry and argue for stronger protections to address its ongoing crises.For more information check this press article in La Voz de Galicia and the ILP document (in Spanish) . 

In the press

Press coverage on the Ocean week:

https://thefishingdaily.com/featured-news/artisanal-fishers-and-oceana-call-for-fairer-fishing-access-through-exhibition/

https://fiskerforum.com/spotlight-on-small-scale-fisheries-at-ocean-weeks-2024-event/

https://theskipper.ie/artisanal-fishermen-and-oceana-call-for-fairer-fishing-access/

Coming up

Ongoing – CINEA launched a call for proposals for expertise and technical assistance to those willing to launch a project that falls under one of the categories supported by the Mission Lighthouse (biodiversity, pollution, and circular economy). Deadline 13/12/2024 

6/11, 14:30-17:30 – European Parliament hearing with Commissioner-designate Kostas Cadis. Watch live here, and read Cadis’s written responses to the Committee’s questions.

12/11 – LIFE will attend a roundtable on Article 17 of the Common Fisheries Policy organised by Oceana. This exclusive event will bring together EU fisheries administrations, Blue NGOs, and low-impact small-scale fishers to discuss collaborative solutions and address implementation challenges.

25-28/11- European Parliament Plenary meetings in Strasbourg, during which MEPs will vote on the full college of Commissioners. Agenda available here.  

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

2025 Baltic Sea Fishing Quotas: Cause for Concern, LIFE Calls for Sustainable Limits

The European Commission’s 2025 fishing quotas for the Baltic Sea have raised concerns among LIFE members. They advocate for more cautious fishing limits based on longer-term stock data, alongside multispecies management. This approach would help safeguard the sustainability of fish populations and protect the livelihoods of communities that rely on Baltic fisheries. LIFE members criticise the scientists’ reliance on just three years of data to assess fish stocks, warning that it could lead to overfishing, especially of herring, and destabilize the marine ecosystem. LIFE says it’s a perverse decision based on flawed science and must be revised. 

LIFE’s Manifesto: Reshaping EU Fisheries Policies for Fairness and Sustainability

For the upcoming X° legislature of the European Union, the Low Impact Fishers of Europe have published a Manifesto with a clear mission: to guide decision-makers in placing small-scale fisheries at the heart of EU fisheries policies, aiming to restructure the current, inequitable system.

This Manifesto serves as a call to action for the European Parliament, urging it to legislate and shape policies that are fair in three crucial aspects: Fair for the Fishers, Fair for Future Generations, and Fair for Nature. LIFE emphasizes that small-scale fishers play a vital role in sustainable fishing practices, but they are often marginalized under existing EU policies that favour larger, industrial fleets.

To address these disparities, LIFE outlines six key priorities within the Manifesto. These priorities are designed to promote a fairer distribution of fishing rights and opportunities, ensure environmental sustainability, and protect the livelihoods of small-scale fishers. By implementing these improvements, the EU can pave the way for a more just and sustainable fisheries management system that benefits not only current fishers but also future generations and the marine environment.

LIFE’s manifesto is both a roadmap and a rallying cry for change, highlighting the urgent need to align EU fisheries policies with social, economic, and ecological fairness.

Nomination of the new European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans

LIFE has welcomed the nomination of Kostas Cadis as the European Commission-designate for Fisheries and Oceans. Coming from Cyprus, an island with a strong small-scale fishing tradition, where he served as Minister for Agriculture, LIFE is hopeful that Cadis will be particularly sensitive to the needs and challenges of small-scale fishers in the Mediterranean and other European waters.

LIFE calls for the Commissioner, once designated, to tackle head-on  the sector’s unique difficulties, from allocating fishing opportunities, to resource management and support for  low impact fishing practices. LIFE looks forward to working closely and cooperatively with Mr. Cadis and his team, once his appointment is confirmed, to further the development of fair and sustainable fisheries policies across Europe.

It’s of note that in the new College of Commissioners, responsibilities for the Environment, for Agriculture and Food, for Energy and Housing, and for Fisheries and Oceans are divided and under the direct direction of the President, and without any explicit horizontal linkages. 

For more information see the following relevant information:  

• Article by Politico on Ursula von der Leyen’s new European Commission
• Von der Leyen’s Political Guidelines 2024-2029, pages 21-22
• List and biographies of Commissioners-designate
• Von der Leyen’s Mission Letter for the Commissioner Designate for Fisheries and Oceans

Celebrating Resilience: The Fourth Festival of Northern Fishing Traditions in North Karelia, Finland

The fourth Festival of Northern Fishing Traditions took place in North Karelia, Finland. Organized by the Snowchange Cooperative, a member of LIFE.  The festival was the brainchild of Olli Klemola, a professional fisherman and steward of fishing traditions in Pälkäne, whose vision inspires the event. This unique event provides a platform for Indigenous and small-scale fishers from various communities worldwide to come together, share knowledge, and revitalize the care and confidence needed to tackle challenges like climate change and the detrimental impacts of industrial fishing. The festival also marked the premiere of a new film, Seining for a Song, produced by Thomas Miller in collaboration with the Snowchange Cooperative. Filmed in the Koitajoki Basin, the documentary highlights how Reino is passing on his river seining expertise to a new generation, despite the centuries of damage and cultural assimilation experienced in Karelia.

Follow the Fish Campaign

LIFE is backing the Follow The Fish campaign, which seeks to address a significant gap in EU labelling and product information legislation in fisheries. While fresh fish must be traceable from catch to consumer, processed seafood products are not held to the same standard. This lack of clarity prevents consumers from knowing the origin, species, and fishing methods of the seafood they purchase.

The Follow The Fish initiative brings together important players in the seafood industry with a shared goal: achieving complete transparency for all seafood, whether fresh or processed.

Campaign advocates are urging EU lawmakers to mandate that essential details—such as species, source, fishing gear used, and production methods—are clearly displayed on all seafood product packaging. They also call for restaurants to provide this key information to consumers, thus, advancing the movement toward more sustainable, equitable, and responsible seafood practices throughout the supply chain.

Respectful Engagement and True Participation: LIFE’s Executive Secretary Marta Cavallé Addresses NGOs and Donors on Small-Scale Fisheries Support

Marta Cavallé, Executive Secretary of LIFE, recently addressed participants in a webinar on the Rules of Conduct, organized by CAPE-CFFA and the RISE UP initiative. The Rules of Conduct are a set of guidelines addressed at organisations and partners that wish to work with small-scale fishers in the context of marine and coastal conservation. This event was designed for an audience of NGOs, donors, and other institutions involved in supporting small-scale fisheries (SSF), with the goal of fostering respectful and meaningful engagement with these communities. One of the guiding principles behind the Rules of Conduct is “nothing about us without us”, respecting the rights of fishers and fishing communities to represent themselves in policy decisions that affect them, and to be at the negotiating table themselves. 

During her intervention, Cavallé emphasized the importance of genuine stakeholder participation when working with SSF and the “right to our own voice”. She highlighted the need for NGOs and institutions to approach small-scale fishers as equal partners, respecting their knowledge, traditions, and rights. The webinar aimed to guide participants in building better relationships with SSF communities, ensuring that their voices are truly heard and considered in decision-making processes. Cavallé’s contribution underscored LIFE’s commitment to advocating for fair and inclusive fisheries governance across Europe and beyond.

MEPs on the PECH Committee reject EC Proposal on Baltic Sea Multi Annual Plan

The European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee rejected the EC proposal to remove the so-called 5 percent rule from the EU’s Baltic Sea fisheries management plan, a rule designed to prevent the collapse of fish stocks. According to LIFE, the EC proposal undermines the socio economic viability of the fishing industry, in particular the small-scale fleet segment, by removing a key fish stock recovery mechanism. Ensuring fish stocks are above Blim (the stock size below which there is a high risk of reduced recruitment) is essential for the viability and sustainability of fishing companies, and this rule (Article 4.6 of the MAP) therefore has positive benefits. 

For further information see LIFE’s position and this article by Fishsec. 

Coming up

30/9 – 4/10 LIFE staff and members from Denmark, France, Spain, UK and Ireland will take part in the Oceans week, a significant initiative including debates, exhibitions and other events to celebrate Europe’s seas and explore how to rebuild their abundance. Events include:

• 30/9 We stand for transparent and fair fishing – a photographic exhibition
• 1/10 Rethink Fisheries! For Thriving Seas and Communities
• 2/10 Ocean lab – MEPs: meet the ocean 
• 3/10 Driving the Energy Transition and Climate Resilience in EU Fisheries
• 3/10 Balancing nature, climate and people at sea: Nature-positive offshore wind

9 – 11/10 Conil de Frontera, Spain: The OPP72 celebrates the III International Congress of Small-Scale Artisanal Fisheries, inviting fishers to engage in a global discussion on “The Blue Economy versus Food Sovereignty.” and regional perspective on critical issues, including the impacts of climate change on coastal areas, governance and co-management systems, and the importance of tenure and local fishing rights. 

Get in touch: communications@lifeplatform.eu