Newsletters

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

3/6 European Parliament PECH Committee: Looking Ahead to the Future of the CFP

LIFE staff attended the June meeting of the European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries (PECH), where Commissioner Costas Kadis presented the evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) as part of the Structured Dialogue with Members of the European Parliament.

The meeting provided an important opportunity to take stock of the CFP’s implementation and discuss its future direction, alongside broader initiatives shaping EU fisheries and maritime policy. While calls for a revision of the CFP are gaining momentum among other interests, LIFE’s assessment coincides with the main European Commission evaluation conclusion, which is that many of the CFP’s shortcomings arise not from the policy framework itself, but from inconsistent implementation and enforcement by Member States. You can review LIFE’s complete analysis on the evaluation of the CFP here. 

The Committee also examined the European Commission’s proposal for the National and Regional Partnership (NRP) Fund for the 2028–2034 programming period. The proposed regulation aims to establish the framework for EU financial support to the Common Fisheries Policy, the European Ocean Pact, and the Union’s maritime and aquaculture policies. German MEP Niclas Herbst (EPP) is the rapporteur nominated by Pech to respond to the EC proposal. 

A central theme of the discussion was the sector’s energy transition, which is expected to require significant investment in the coming years. While recognising the importance of supporting this transition, LIFE’s position (see news item below) is that dedicated, ring-fenced funding for the small-scale fisheries sector is essential to ensure the segment can fully benefit from future EU funding opportunities. 

LIFE will continue to closely follow these discussions and engage with EU institutions to ensure that the interests and needs of small-scale, low-impact fishers are fully reflected in the future policy and funding framework.

9/6 LIFE’s Position on the Future Fisheries Fund and the Definition of Small-Scale Fisheries

MEP Niclas Herbst (EPP), the Pech Committee Rapporteur for the renewal of EU sectoral support to the Common Fisheries Policy, the European Ocean Pact and the Union’s maritime and aquaculture policy as part of the National and Regional Partnership Fund (NRP Fund) for the period from 2028 to 2034, presented his draft report in the European Parliament. 

LIFE welcomes the proposal to safeguard a dedicated EU budget for fisheries and aquaculture in the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework. Ring-fencing funding is essential to ensure continued support for fishing communities. However, LIFE opposes the proposed revision of the definition of small-scale coastal fisheries. The new definition, as proposed, could create loopholes, allowing larger vessels using high impact gears to qualify for funding intended for genuine small-scale fishers. LIFE calls for retaining the current EMFAF definition and creating targeted support that reflects the needs and contribution of Europe’s small-scale, low-impact fishing sector.

9-11/6 LIFE attends EU Sustainable Energy Week on behalf of the Seaglow projet 

LIFE attended the EU Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) in Brussels as a partner in the SEAGLOW project. 

The event brought together policymakers, researchers, businesses, and EU-funded projects to discuss how Europe can accelerate the transition to clean energy. It also offered a valuable opportunity to connect with representatives from CINEA – the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency – and exchange experiences with other initiatives working towards a more sustainable future.

This year’s central message was clear: the energy transition must be inclusive. As part of the SEAGLOW consortium and through its broader advocacy work, LIFE is committed to ensuring that small-scale fisheries are not left behind. Supporting the sector’s transition to cleaner and more energy-efficient technologies requires policies and investments that are fair, accessible, and tailored to the realities of small-scale fisheries, enabling fishers to play an active role in building a more tomorrow’s blue economy. 

10/6 Advancing Offshore Wind – what role for small-scale fisheries?

LIFE participated in the European Parliament event “Advancing Offshore Wind Alongside Marine Protection”, hosted by MEPs Paulo do Nascimento Cabral and Eric Sargiacomo. The discussion brought together policymakers, industry and public authorities to explore the future of offshore wind in European seas.

For LIFE, the debate reinforced a clear message: while Europe’s energy transition and climate resilience goals are rightly high on the political agenda, they must not come at the expense of small-scale fisheries. As offshore wind developments expand, many coastal fishers are facing reduced access to traditional fishing grounds, increasing competition for marine space, and new operational and safety challenges.

LIFE will continue working closely with fishing communities across Europe to better understand these impacts and advocate for marine spatial planning that recognises the tenure rights and essential role of small-scale fisheries. Achieving Europe’s renewable energy ambitions must go hand in hand with protecting the livelihoods, cultural heritage, and the future of the coastal communities that depend on healthy seas.

12/6 LIFE Contributes to the Stakeholders Roundtable on the European Ocean Act

To achieve the Ocean Pact’s targets, the Commission will present an Ocean Act by 2027, a single framework to facilitate the implementation of the Pact’s key objectives, while cutting red tape. It will be based on a revised Maritime Spatial Planning Directive, which will enhance cross-sectoral coordination and sea basin management.

LIFE Executive Secretary Marta Cavallé participated in a stakeholder roundtable on the forthcoming European Ocean Act, convened by the Oceano Azul Foundation, Europe Jacques Delors, and Seas At Risk. The roundtable focused on the first pillar of the European Ocean Pact—”Ocean, Climate and Planetary Health”—and brought together representatives from industry, civil society, academia, EU institutions, and Member States to develop recommendations for the future Ocean Act.

The objective was to identify common priorities and develop concrete, legally and politically feasible recommendations to help shape the forthcoming European Ocean Act. Discussions focused on aligning the revisions of the Maritime Spatial Planning and Marine Strategy Framework Directives, strengthening the effective management of Marine Protected Areas and ocean restoration, and improving coherence between ocean and other policy areas, particularly at the land-sea interface. 

LIFE underscored that the European Ocean Act needs to provide the legal clarity necessary to operationalise the prioritisation of small-scale fisheries mentioned in the Ocean Pact, detailing exactly how to halt their current decline, strengthen resilience and help achieve future potential. Marta mentioned that “we cannot keep undervaluing and overlooking this sector. Instead, the ocean act should recognise it as a strategic one that should play a central role going forward, and establish a specific target for a binding Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries in Europe”. 

LIFE’s views is that in order to mitigate risks from larger-scale blue economy sectors, the Ocean Act must protect coastal communities from significant environmental and socio-economic harm. It should establish regenerative areas, granting preferential access to small-scale, low-impact fishers and activities within the 12 miles zone. These areas should be managed through co-management schemes to ensure equitable governance and sustainability. 

13/6 and 27/6 Promoting underutilised fish species in Sweden 

LIFE took part in two events in Sweden highlighting the potential of underutilised fish species to support sustainable food systems, healthy aquatic ecosystems, and viable inland fisheries. On 13 June, LIFE staff attended the Fish Festival in Ede, outside Kälarne, which attracted over 400 visitors to taste underutilised freshwater species such as roach and bream. The festival grew out of a local fishery management project aimed at reducing algae blooms in Lake Hemsjön by harvesting these species. Rather than discarding the catch, local fishers collaborate with food experts to transform them into innovative products, including fermented roach, demonstrating how so-called “trash fish” can become valuable and sustainable food resources.

Later in the month, on 27 June, LIFE participated in the “Forgotten Fish” tasting event at Smaklabbet in Väderstad. Children and teenagers took part in a hands-on cooking workshop using round goby, an invasive species caught and supplied by LIFE Board Member Bengt Larsson, showcasing another example of how overlooked fish can be brought into home kitchens. The event also featured the “Forgotten Fish” panel discussion, organised by Kålrotsakademien and chef Stefan Eriksson, where LIFE’s Aksel Ydrén joined chefs, fishers, and food experts to discuss taste, sustainability, and the role of underutilised species in the future of food.

19/6 Press briefing: EU fisheries at a crossroads

Ahead of the AGRIFISH Council of Ministers meeting, LIFE Executive Secretary Marta Cavallé took part in a press briefing on the future of EU fisheries policy, organised jointly by a group of NGOs for sector journalists. 

The briefing came at a pivotal moment for European fisheries governance, just following the European Commission’s announcement that it is preparing a fisheries “Omnibus” package to simplify existing legislation. With the upcoming Ocean Act, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Vision 2040, the next Multiannual Financial Framework, and the evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) all on the table, the coming months will shape the future of Europe’s fisheries for years to come. 

LIFE highlighted that the main shortcomings of the CFP lie not in the policy itself, but in its inadequate implementation and enforcement across Member States, which have failed to uphold the spirit of the legislation while favouring large-scale interests. While some stakeholders are calling for a revision of the CFP, LIFE stressed that priority should be given to fully implementing the existing framework, strengthening accountability, and delivering on its objectives before reopening the legislation. LIFE also emphasised that an ambitious Ocean Act, with binding measures to support Small-Scale Fisheries through the fair allocation of fishing opportunities and access to marine space, would deliver more immediate and tangible results. 

These issues featured prominently in the subsequent AGRIFISH Council of Ministers (22–23/6), where EU fisheries ministers discussed the state of the CFP and launched the annual process for setting fishing opportunities for 2027. While the Commission reported continued progress towards sustainable fisheries, Ministers acknowledged ongoing challenges, including climate change and the need to ensure the long-term resilience and profitability of the sector. Ministers also reviewed the evaluation of the CFP and progress on the proposed 2028–2034 EU fisheries funding framework, focusing discussions on ensuring future funding supports key priorities such as decarbonisation, fisheries control, and fisheries management. 

23/6  Commission seeks feedback on fisheries multiannual plans (MAPs) – LIFE position

The European Commission plans to review four of its Multiannual Plans (MAPs) – for the Baltic Sea, the North Sea, the Western Waters and the Western Mediterranean. It has issued a call for evidence (now closed) to obtain views and gather scientific, ecosystem and economic data on fisheries MAPs from stakeholders. 

The MAPs provide a potentially powerful tool for restoring fish stocks and marine ecosystem health, for achieving diverse, sustainable and resilient fisheries, underpinning coastal communities’ prosperity. 

LIFE is highly critical of the way that Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) has been applied, and calls for reforming the MAPs, with MSY being applied to reduce fishing intensity for all commercial species, while accounting for stock structure and ecosystem interactions. 

LIFE also calls for MAPs to build in positive incentives that reward selective and low impact fishing, to establish fisheries regenerative areas within the 12 mile zone under co-management, and to strengthen community led governance. LIFE also urges the EC and Member States to include action plans for small-scale coastal fishing.

LIFE position is available on the Have Your Say portal and on LinkedIN. 

Coming up:

16/7 Deadline to respond to the public consultation on the European Ocean Act. The Ocean Act aims to serve as a reference point for Marine Spatial Planning. 

7-9 Wexford, Ireland –  Ireland is hosting will host the EU Ocean Act Conference at which delegates will meet and discuss the draft European Ocean Act, a forthcoming EU law, planned for 2027, designed to unify ocean-related policies, strengthen maritime spatial planning, and promote sustainable use of marine resources. LIFE members from Ireland are going to attend on behalf of the Platform. 

8/7 Online – Meeting of the Ocean Board to inform about the state of the Ocean Pact Dashboard and Ocean Report

9/7 Plenary of the European Parliament, Strasbourg, France – Debate on the European Commission’s Evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and its follow-up (9-10:30CET). Members of the European Parliament exchange views on the Commission’s evaluation and the next steps for the CFP. The Parliament is expected to vote on the file during the September plenary session.

21/7 Deadline for the call for evidence on the European maritime, fisheries and aquaculture fund: amendment for simplification and to transpose the WTO agreement

In the press: 

Seafood Source: LIFE position ahead of the Agrifish Council

EU Observer: LIFE President, Gwen Pennarun, opinion piece

Hook and Net: Spain to mandate pingers for artisanal fleet 

Fishing Daily: Scientific Study Finds that Fisheries Sustainability Depends not on Size but Responsible Management 

Commission publishes first annual social report on fisheries, aquaculture and fish processing 

Cover image (©) Dimitris Vetsikas

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

CFP Evaluation Report: Europe Must Do Better for Small-Scale Fishers

The analysis of the evaluation of the CFP through the lens of the Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE) reveals a general shared acknowledgement that the primary challenge is not the rules themselves but mostly inconsistent implementation and enforcement across Member States, but it disagrees on the positive trend presented in the evaluation on the sustainability of stocks, which LIFE claims is not borne out by reality. 

A number of challenges persist for small-scale fisheries. The evaluation highlights shortcomings in the delivery of the CFP’s social and economic objectives, including securing a fair standard of living for fishers. Key provisions related to access to space, allocation of fishing opportunities and stakeholder participation remain insufficiently implemented. Although the evaluation does not include a dedicated assessment of Article 17, it confirms that small-scale fishers still face significant barriers to accessing fishing opportunities. Regarding Articles 5 and 20, it found no cases where the 12-nautical-mile zone is formally reserved for small-scale coastal fisheries. The evaluation also highlights that structural imbalances and problems of representativeness persist in the Advisory Councils. 

LIFE and the evaluation agree that the Landing Obligation and fleet capacity measures have largely failed due to poor implementation, weak enforcement, and numerous exemptions, with little uptake of more selective fishing practices. This has contributed to fisheries mismanagement and reduced resilience. However, LIFE considers it a significant omission that the evaluation fails to link the shortcomings of the Landing Obligation to the inadequate implementation of Article 17. 

As discussions begin on the future of EU fisheries policy, LIFE calls for stronger accountability, better implementation and enforcement of existing rules, and greater recognition and a binding mandate for Member States to support the role that small-scale, low-impact fisheries play in supporting sustainable food systems and resilient coastal communities through the Ocean Act. LIFE PR is available here, and position paper here. 

4/5 Can we save the eel by eating it? Gastronomy and heritage in focus

LIFE participated in an interdisciplinary research seminar hosted by the University of Gothenburg at Talldungens Gårdshotell in Brösarp, Sweden. The workshop gathered researchers, small-scale fishers, chefs, and environmental organisations to explore how local gastronomy and culinary heritage can play a role in saving the critically endangered European eel.

The day featured open discussions on sustainability and coastal identity, alongside a presentation by eel scientist Willem Dekker. For LIFE, the event was a valuable opportunity to highlight the realities of the small-scale sector, including gear development to selectively fish round goby and avoid eel bycatch. The seminar concluded with group sessions to lay the groundwork for future joint research and practical collaborations.

6/5 LIFE at the European Parliament: Competitiveness and the Future of Small-Scale Fisheries

The Fisheries Committee of the European Parliament organised a public hearing entitled “Increasing competitiveness in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors by reducing bureaucracy and regulatory burden.”

LIFE was represented by Marta Cavallé, Executive Secretary, who took part in the second part of the hearing, dedicated to boosting the competitiveness of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

During the presentation, Marta highlighted the need for moving from decline to a thriving, fair and sustainable small-scale fishing sector across Europe. For that, she highlighted the 6 main factors affecting competitiveness of the small-scale fishing fleet (environmental factors, lack of access to resources, spatial squeeze, lack of access to markets, lack of dedicated support, barriers to enter the profession) and what LIFE suggests to counter the negative trend. She also underlined the need for a dedicated Action Plan for Small-Scale Fisheries within the forthcoming European Ocean Act, calling for a change of course that places small-scale, low-impact fishers at the centre of Ocean Policy. 

The hearing provided an important opportunity to bring the voice of small-scale fishers to the European Parliament and contribute to ongoing discussions on the future competitiveness of the sector.

14/5 Highlights from the LIFE Board of Directors Meeting 

The LIFE Board of Directors met to discuss the latest policy developments. 

LIFE reported on its participation in the first meeting of the European Ocean Board and in a European Parliament Fisheries Committee hearing on competitiveness and simplification, reflecting growing recognition of the organisation and greater visibility for the small-scale sector at EU level.

The Board reviewed the recently published evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), which confirms that many socio-economic objectives for small-scale fisheries remain unmet. Members stressed the need for stronger implementation, accountability and fairer access to resources.

Discussions on the new Fisheries Control Regulation highlighted concerns that several requirements are not adapted to the realities of small-scale fishing operations, particularly regarding reporting and weighing requirements before landing and compliance costs.

Members also exchanged updates on fuel subsidy schemes across Europe, noting significant disparities and calling for fairer support mechanisms that better reflect the needs of small-scale fishers.

21/5 European Parliament Plenary adopts Resolution on the Baltic Sea Multi-Annual Plan (MAP) 

The own initiative report (INI) on the Baltic MAP, initiated by the Swedish Green MEP, Isabella Lövin, was adopted by the European Parliament. The MAP, in place since 2016, was meant to support successful fish stock management but has failed to deliver on its core objectives. The report contains 59 measures that are aimed at improving the current management system moving forward. These include a ban on industrial trawling for fishmeal when stocks are in bad shape, adding more precaution to the scientific advice process so as to ensure there are more fish in the sea with higher biomass thresholds in place, as well as integrating the requirements under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive to ensure that fish populations have a healthy age and size distribution. 

20-23/5 European Maritime Day 2026: Small-Scale Fishers Engage in Shaping Future EU Fisheries Policy 

European Maritime Day 2026 took place in Cyprus. It provided an important opportunity for a delegation of small-scale fishers from France, Denmark, Italy and Portugal, together with LIFE and Blue Ventures staff under the #MakeFishingFair campaign, to engage directly with EU policymakers on key initiatives shaping the future of the sector.

In discussions on the future Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the delegation called for a dedicated, ring-fenced budget for small-scale fisheries and for funding instruments that are accessible, proportionate and capable of supporting the resilience, innovation and long-term viability of coastal fishing communities.

Debates on the European Ocean Act highlighted the need to secure fair access to resources and maritime space for small-scale fishers, with the 12-mile zone being reserved for small-scale, low-impact operations. Additionally, strengthening co-management approaches should be a central pillar of the sustainable blue economy. The delegation also advocated for the inclusion of a European Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries within the Ocean Act. In this context, they also engaged with and supported Cypriot fishers in their call for a National Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries, demonstrating the alignment to act at European and national level.

Contributions to discussions on the Vision 2040 for Fisheries and Aquaculture stressed the need for a dedicated future pathway for small-scale, low-impact fisheries, supported by generational renewal, fair access to opportunities, stronger representation and more inclusive governance structures.

The delegation also engaged in exchanges on the Roadmap for the Energy Transition of EU Fisheries and Aquaculture, underlining that decarbonisation objectives must be accompanied by adequate financial support, appropriate technologies and practical solutions adapted to the realities of small-scale fleets.

A consistent message throughout the event was that the success of these policy initiatives will depend on the meaningful participation of small-scale fishers in both their design and implementation.

20/5 A Positive Signal for Small-Scale Fishers in Maritime Spatial Planning 

LIFE welcomes the European Parliament’s adoption of a Resolution on the implementation of the Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) Directive, which recognises the growing pressures on fisheries, particularly small-scale coastal fisheries, from increasing competition for maritime space.

The Resolution calls for a more balanced and inclusive approach to maritime spatial planning, with stronger stakeholder participation, better assessment of socio-economic impacts, and greater recognition of fisheries and aquaculture as strategic sectors for food security and coastal resilience. It also highlights the importance of safeguarding access to fishing grounds via “preferential access within the 12 nautical mile zone for small-scale fisheries, low-impact activities and conservation projects”,  and ensuring that small-scale fishers are meaningfully involved in planning processes.

26/5 – Commission Opens Consultation on Fisheries Management Plans 

The European Commission has launched a call for evidence on the EU’s Multiannual Fisheries Management Plans (MAPs), seeking feedback from stakeholders on provisions that have proven difficult to implement and their impacts on fisheries management and the sector’s viability. The review forms part of the Commission’s broader efforts to improve and simplify fisheries management while maintaining the objectives of the Common Fisheries Policy. 

25–26/5 Visit to West Coast Fisher with Chefs, Exploring Future Opportunities

 LIFE visited Swedish west coast fisher Bobo Johansson owner of Bobos Fisk, together with chefs from Seafood Gastro (1 Michelin star, Grand Hôtel Stockholm). Bobos Fisk specialises in shellfish fisheries using passive gears and has previously participated in trials with shrimp pots as an alternative to bottom trawling.

The visit focused on exploring new seafood opportunities and strengthening cooperation between fishers and chefs. Gullmarsfjorden is set to become Sweden’s first marine protected area where bottom trawling will be fully phased out from 2027, creating unique opportunities for the development of selective, low-impact fisheries and new value chains based on high-quality seafood products.

28-29/5 ICES advice published

The scientific advice on fishing opportunities for the Baltic Sea in 2027 was published by ICES and the rollercoaster is set to continue next year with stock growth and recovery once again left off the agenda. 

At last year’s October Council (p.13) a clear commitment was made by the EU to reform the scientific approach to management to ensure that the advice would support healthy fish stocks. It is regrettable that this has yet to be delivered. 

LIFE is critical to the current approach to scientific advice, as it does not deliver healthy stocks or sustainable catches. For the coming year, the output from ICES states that quotas for the Central and Bothnian herring stocks can be more than doubled, even though the biomass levels are below threshold values. The cod fishery will likely continue to be closed, and the salmon stocks are still assessed as being in poor shape. 

Coming up:

9-11/6 Brussels – EU Sustainable Energy Week, the largest annual event in Europe dedicated to promoting secure, clean and efficient energy.

13/6 Jämtland, Sweden – Fish Festival – Promoting Sustainable Freshwater Fisheries at Lilla Ede Gård in Kälarne, central Sweden. The festival brings together fishers, food producers, chefs and the public to explore how underutilised freshwater species can contribute to more sustainable food systems.

22-23/6 Brussels – AGRIFISH Council of Ministers 

26/6 Cyprus – High-level conference “Strengthening islands and coastal communities of the European Union” 

7-8/07 Ireland – EU Ocean Act Conference (Ireland)

15-6/7 Inter-AC Meeting and Dialogue with Stakeholders 

In the press

The Commission published its annual communication on the state of EU fisheries, taking stock of progress towards sustainable fishing and setting the course for the upcoming cycle of fishing opportunities for 2027. 

Normandy Fishermen Challenge Repeal of 12-mile Fishing Rule 

EU End of Fish Day 

Dutch Court Halts Unregulated Bottom Trawling on Dogger Bank in North Sea 

As EU rewrites fisheries rules, Coastal Fishers Fear a Privatised Sea (by LIFE President, Gwen Pennarun)

Immediate support for small-scale fisheries in Cyprus Urged 

Cover image @Juergiboe

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

LIFE contributes to EU calls for evidence on fisheries and coastal policies

LIFE and its members have actively contributed to several ongoing calls for evidence shaping the future of EU ocean and coastal policies, including the Vision 2040 for fisheries and aquaculture, the EU Strategy for Coastal Communities, and the forthcoming EU Islands Strategy.

Through these contributions, LIFE highlights the need for a more balanced and inclusive approach that fully recognises the role of small-scale fisheries in sustaining coastal and island communities. LIFE stresses that policies must go beyond economic growth objectives and ensure fair access to resources, decent livelihoods, and long-term resilience for small-scale fishers.

LIFE contributions are available here:

Vision 2040 contribution

EU Strategy for Coastal Communities

EU Islands Strategy

31/3 LIFE joins the European Ocean Board

LIFE is proud to announce its selection onto the European Ocean Board, a newly established high-level advisory body to the European Commission. Bringing together 28 experts and representatives from across ocean-related sectors, the Board will provide strategic guidance on the future direction of EU ocean policy.  

LIFE Executive Secretary Marta Cavallé will represent the organisation, ensuring that the voice of small-scale fishers and their communities is heard at the highest level of decision-making.

The inaugural meeting took place in Brussels, where LIFE introduced its work and highlighted key priorities for the implementation of the Ocean Pact, including what outcomes should look like from the perspective of low-impact fisheries. As part of her statement, Marta highlighted “The Ocean Pact will be successful if it restores fish stocks and the marine environment, through better implementation of existing legislation, improved scientific knowledge, and the establishment of clear, binding environmental targets and indicators, while also ensuring that those who depend on the ocean can make a living. The Ocean Act must provide the legal clarity needed to operationalise the prioritisation of small-scale fisheries set out in the Ocean Pact, clearly defining how to halt their current decline, strengthen their resilience, and enable them to achieve their full future potential”

LIFE looks forward to contributing constructively to the Board’s work and to helping shape policies that support a fair and sustainable future for Europe’s seas. 

2-5/3 European Ocean Days 

LIFE participated in the European Ocean Days, contributing to discussions on the future of EU fisheries and coastal communities.

During the session on the Vision 2040, small-scale fisheries were widely recognised as a priority. However, their effective representation in the discussions was lacking, with a gap between stated ambitions and concrete actions. LIFE, together with partners, advocates for a Vision that balances economic and environmental objectives, addressing both ecological and social challenges, including the continued decline of the sector across Europe.

During discussions on the upcoming EU Strategy for Coastal Communities, LIFE noted with concern the strong focus on blue growth sectors and innovation, with limited attention given to small-scale fisheries. LIFE considers this a missed opportunity and calls for small-scale fisheries to be placed at the centre of the strategy, recognising their key role in supporting coastal livelihoods, cultural heritage, and resilient local economies.

11-12/3 Nordic Seafood Summit

LIFE participated in the Nordic Seafood Summit in Gothenburg, bringing together actors from across the seafood value chain. The event highlighted growing interest in underutilised species, including round goby, and their role in more resilient seafood systems.

Discussions with chefs, industry and project partners pointed to clear opportunities for product development and market uptake, while also underlining remaining challenges related to processing and logistics. For LIFE, the Summit confirmed the relevance of the Round Goby project in developing new value chains that can benefit small-scale fishers.

16/3 Mediterranean fishers warn of declining fish stocks

Small-scale fishers from France, Spain and Cyprus are raising the alarm over declining fish populations, degraded ecosystems, and increasing pressure on their livelihoods. In a new video testimonial, they highlight that the crisis is not due to a lack of rules, but to insufficient implementation of the Common Fisheries Policy. When properly enforced, existing legislation can rebuild stocks and support coastal communities. 

The video was developed in collaboration with partners including Seas At Risk, ClientEarth, Ecologistas en Acción, Oceana, Med Sea Alliance, and with the support of Meridian Agency.

16-17/3 LIFE follows key EU discussions on maritime spatial planning and the Ocean Act

LIFE participated as an observer in the 30th meeting of the Member States Expert Group on Maritime Spatial Planning. 

Discussions focused on the upcoming revision of the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive, with particular attention to improving alignment with the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, as both frameworks are currently under review. In parallel, work is advancing on the development of a future EU Ocean Act. Preliminary policy options are currently being explored as part of the impact assessment process and remain subject to further refinement. Member States have been invited to provide feedback on these options. 

24/3 LIFE position on EMFAF amendments

LIFE has published its position on how the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) should support the energy transition in fisheries. LIFE welcomes the announcement by Charlina Vitcheva that EMFAF sectoral support will be amended to include energy transition measures as an important step.

However, LIFE stresses that limited public funds must be used to support a fair and sustainable transition, prioritising small-scale fisheries and avoiding harmful capacity-enhancing subsidies. LIFE’s proposals aim to guide the use of EMFAF funding, in line with recommendations from the Small-Scale Fisheries Working Group of the Energy Transition Partnership.

25/3 LIFE Board of Directors meeting – key highlights

LIFE’s Board of Directors met to review ongoing activities and discuss key policy and strategic developments.

Directors were updated on LIFE’s Annual plan and main policy priorities, including the evaluation of the CFP and CMO, the development of the Ocean Act, Maritime Spatial Planning, and the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). LIFE’s recent engagements—such as contributing to consultations and securing a seat on the Ocean Board—were also highlighted.

Strategic discussions focused on preparing for the upcoming CFP evaluation and advancing work within the Energy Transition Partnership. The Board also discussed LIFE’s contribution to the EU Islands Strategy and approved a working definition of small-scale fisheries based on EMFAF criteria.

Finally, members raised concerns about rising fuel prices and their impact on small-scale fisheries, highlighting the need for stronger support mechanisms at EU level.

30/3 AGRIFISH Council

LIFE followed the public sessions of the AGRIFISH Council , which included discussions on the energy transition in fisheries as well as reporting on the implementation dialogue on small-scale fisheries held by the EU Commission in November 2025.

On the energy transition, several Member States referred to the need to adapt the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). In this context, LIFE considers that such a development could represent an important opportunity, provided that support is carefully targeted towards small-scale fisheries and avoids measures that may risk increasing fishing capacity. LIFE also welcomes the emphasis on exploring complementary financing solutions, including through the European Investment Bank, particularly in light of concerns that SSF may struggle to access funds available under the next EU budget – the Multiannual Financial Framework – due to competition from other sectors. 

The Council also discussed the implementation dialogue on small-scale and coastal fisheries, which LIFE sees as an important part of the European Commission’s ongoing work. The Commission reported key important conclusions  providing an opportunity to reflect on preferential access for small-scale fisheries within the 12-nautical-mile zone and to revisit SSF access to fishing opportunities through a more enlightened approach to Article 17 (as highlighted in the recently published Vademecum). 

Efforts to reduce administrative burden were highlighted by several Member States and are seen by LIFE as positive, provided that changes are tailored to the needs of small-scale operators and accompanied by adequate support and guidance at national level. At the same time, LIFE notes with some concern the limited reference or progress made by Member States on improving fishing quota allocation systems and access to space. 

Overall, according to LIFE, further concrete action at EU level—notably via a dedicated Action Plan for small-scale fisheries by 2026—is urgently needed to change the direction of travel  and address the various challenges facing the sector. LIFE is pleased to see such a proposal highlighted in the Commission’s report as follows: “The absence of a dedicated and binding EU Action Plan for small-scale and coastal fisheries was repeatedly highlighted, alongside the lack of clear timelines and accountability mechanisms, which was seen as contributing to regulatory uncertainty for fishers and support organisations alike”.

New team member: welcome to Claudia Giulia Cantele Silva

LIFE welcomed Claudia Giulia Cantele Silva as its new Administrative and Financial Officer.

Working from the Brussels office, she will play a key role in enhancing internal systems and supporting the smooth financial management of activities across the organisation.

Coming up

15/4 Brussels – PECH Committee meeting. Agenda here. 

16/4 Brussels – Energy Transition Partnership workshop on the Energy Transition. Registration here. 

23/4 Online- Energy Transition Partnership –  Baseline for the energy transition Study Workshop (All SSF WG members of the ETP are invited)

In the press

Industrias Pesqueras: piece by Brian O’Riordan on the Make Fishing Fair Roadmap

NIFA Warns Inshore Fuisheries Face Collapse Amid Fuel Crisis 

EU Raises Mackerel Quotas Despite Scientific Warnings 

Generational Renewal is a Challenge for Small-scale Fisheries 

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

3/2 EU Blue Economy Conference

Brian O’Riordan, LIFE Policy Advisor, moderated the Fisheries & Aquaculture session at the European Blue Economy Conference, which brought together European Commission officials, NGOs, industry representatives and port authorities to discuss the future of Europe’s blue economy. The event offered a useful opportunity to raise the profile of LIFE, to highlight the importance of small-scale fisheries in the evolving Blue Economy agenda, and to steer a discussion around the issues of key importance for fisheries. Recording available here.    

9/2 Call for evidence of the Ocean Act

LIFE has provided its contribution to the European Commission’s Call for Evidence on the forthcoming European Ocean Act . The Ocean Act builds on the European Ocean Pact, and will provide an overarching legal framework to improve the coherence and effective implementation of maritime governance in the EU. It is expected to be adopted in 2026. In its submission, LIFE urges that small-scale fisheries (SSFs) be fully integrated into the heart of EU maritime governance, in recognition of their essential role in supporting coastal communities, safeguarding marine ecosystems, and advancing social, environmental and climate objectives.

The proposed Ocean Act aims to enhance coherence across EU ocean-related policies, build on the revision of the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive (Directive 2014/89/EU), strengthen the governance of the European Ocean Observation System, and simplify reporting requirements in order to reduce administrative burdens.

At the same time, the European Commission is calling for applications for the High-Level European Ocean Board, a new expert group established under the European Ocean Pact. The call for applications is open for a period of 4 weeks, offering professionals and organisations the opportunity to help shape the future of ocean governance, on which LIFE is willing to apply. 

16/2 CINEA event “Feedback to Policy” 

LIFE participated in the CINEA “Feedback to Policy” Workshop on the Energy Transition of the Fisheries Sector and Maritime Decarbonisation, both as a Seaglow consortium partner and as Coordinator of the Support Group on Small-Scale Coastal Fisheries within the Energy Transition Partnership. The workshop brought together EU policymakers and research projects to ensure that lessons from pilot projects, both from Fisheries and Maritime transport perspectives, inform future research priorities,regulatory and funding frameworks.

Seaglow contributed to discussions on fisheries decarbonisation, highlighting the need to bridge technological innovation with operational realities at sea, engaging the small-scale fishers and to provide clear, coherent support mechanisms to enable the uptake of alternative energy solutions.

17/2 High-level Conference on the Energy Transition

LIFE Executive Secretary Marta Cavallé was a panelist at the High-Level Conference “Navigating Change: Towards the Energy Transition in the EU”, which brought together policymakers, sector representatives and industry stakeholders to discuss the strategic direction of the energy transition in fisheries and aquaculture. The event provided an opportunity to present the recently published sectorial SSF recommendations and the joint considerations of the Energy Transition Partnership, setting out key proposals to support small-scale fisheries in the transition process.

Speaking in her capacity as Coordinator of the Energy Transition Partnership Support Group on Small-Scale Coastal Fisheries, Marta contributed to the panel discussions by highlighting how small-scale fisheries are already at the forefront of the Energy Transition due to the low carbon footprint already in place. She emphasised that for full decarbonisation there is need to previously issue specific policies, like a binding Plan of Action to support SSF in Europe, to provide the necessary certainty for a brighter viable future for the sector, and the need to prioritise public funding for SSF (which is ring-fenced, meaningful and tailored to them). Without these conditions, Energy transition may not happen for SSF and they could be left behind.  

The conference featured high-level interventions from EU Commissioner Costas Kadis, Minister Maria Panayiotou on behalf of the Council Presidency, Minister Timmy Dooley representing the upcoming Presidency, and DG MARE Director-General Charlina Vitcheva.

09/2 Herring from Norrland receives the EU quality label Protected Designation of Origin (PDO).

Herring from Norrland (Norrlandsströmming) has been granted Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status within the EU. The application was initiated by LIFE members Kustfiskarna Bottenhavet, representing small-scale coastal fishers along the northern Swedish Baltic coast.

The designation applies to herring caught in the Bothnian Sea and Bothnian Bay. To qualify as Norrlandsströmming, the fish must be caught using passive gears and landed within 24 hours, ensuring high quality and a low-impact fishing method closely linked to local coastal traditions.

For LIFE and its members, the recognition highlights the value of small-scale fisheries that combine selective fishing practices, strong regional identity and high-quality seafood. The new status is expected to strengthen market recognition for locally landed Baltic herring and support coastal fishing communities in northern Sweden.

25/2 PECH Committee meeting

LIFE attended the February meeting of the European Parliament’s PECH Committee, where a study on Assessing the Impact of Seafood Imports on EU Self-Sufficiency was presented. The study highlights the significant role played by imports in meeting consumer demand for seafood in the EU. If exports are excluded, EU domestic production covers only 14.2% of total seafood consumption, meaning imports supply over 80% of what Europeans eat. The report examines how seafood imports influence the EU’s ability to meet its own demand, comparing production costs, competitiveness and innovation between EU and non-EU producers. It also explores policy options to strengthen the resilience of the EU seafood sector in line with the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy. During the discussion, concerns were also raised about the use of fish for reduction into fishmeal and fish oil rather than prioritising direct human consumption, particularly in the Baltic Sea context.

The Committee also held an exchange with the European Commission on the implementation of the revised Fisheries Control Regulation, whose certain provisions have entered into force in January 2026, while others will progressively do so. Several MEPs across political groups raised concerns regarding the practical compliance of small-scale fisheries, highlighting measures that may prove unworkable on the ground, such as the four-hour prior notification requirement before returning to port. While the Commission signalled limited appetite to reopen the legislation, it encouraged the use of flexibilities within the existing legal framework. Issues of digital sovereignty were also discussed, particularly in relation to fisheries data stored in cloud systems registered in third countries.

25/2 RoundGoby Working Group meeting on product development 

LIFE is a partner in the RoundGoby Project, an initiative that seeks to transform an environmental challenge into an opportunity for coastal communities. The project focuses on the round goby, an invasive species originating from the Black Sea that has traditionally been regarded as problematic bycatch with little commercial value. Through innovation and collaboration, partners aim to develop viable markets and unlock new income streams for small-scale fishers.

On 25 February, SUBMARINER Network for Blue Growth hosted the RoundGoby Working Group meeting on product development. The workshop presented pilot results from Sweden, Estonia and Lithuania, explored opportunities to develop round goby into innovative products for human consumption and pet food, and examined how added value could directly support small-scale coastal fisheries.

26/2 From Policy to Practice: Why Enforcement Matters for Mediterranean Fisheries

LIFE, alongside MedSea Alliance, ClientEarth, Oceana and Seas At Risk, contributed to the release of a new video featuring testimonies from small-scale fishers in Cyprus, France and Spain. The central message is unequivocal: the difficulties confronting Mediterranean low-impact fisheries arise less from the structure of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) itself and more from shortcomings in its application and enforcement.

In the video, fishers speak about shrinking fish stocks, rising fishing pressure, restricted access to quota and insufficiently enforced protections within Marine Protected Areas. Their accounts illustrate the practical challenges faced at sea and in coastal communities. The CFP already provides mechanisms to rebuild stocks, allocate resources more equitably and support resilient coastal livelihoods. As the policy enters a period of review, these first-hand perspectives offer grounded evidence that the current crisis in Mediterranean small-scale fisheries reflects gaps in implementation at Member State level rather than flaws in the policy’s original design.

Coming up:

2-6/3 Brussels – European Ocean Days 2026: Organised by DG MARE in Brussels, the event consisted of a week-long series of sessions addressing a range of issues relevant to small-scale fisheries, including the Vision 2040, the forthcoming Islands Strategy and developments under the Mission Ocean initiative.

9/3 EU Commission: deadline consultation on  the upcoming revision of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. 

10/03 EU Commission: deadline for call for applications for the European Ocean Board

11-12/3 Nordic Seafood Summit

16-17/3 PECH Committee meeting in the European Parliament

23/3 EU Commission: deadline call for evidence on the EU strategy for coastal communities

23/3 EU Commission: deadline call for evidence on the Vision 2040

30/3 AGRIFISH Council 

Press Corner:

Fiskerforum: Markets react to mackerel demise 

The Artisanal Fishing Festival, organised by the association Pleine Mer, took place in the port of Brest, Brittany on 6 February 2026 

Community Catch to launch small-scale fisheries certification scheme 

FiskerForum: increasing role of e-commerce and AI in 2026

The Control Regulation is suffocating European fishers 

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

Public Consultation on the Revision of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive

The European Commission has opened a public consultation in view of the forthcoming revision of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The revision seeks to reinforce the protection of marine ecosystems, streamline implementation across Member States, and better reflect operational realities at sea. Links to the evaluation of the MSFD and its summary can be found here. 

Importantly, the revision process will be closely aligned with the development of the European Ocean Act, with the objective of improving policy coherence and promoting a more integrated approach to ocean governance and the sustainable management of marine resources.

Fishers, coastal communities and a broad range of marine stakeholders are strongly encouraged to contribute to the consultation and ensure that practical experience from the water is adequately reflected in future EU policy.

Deadline for contributions: 9 March 2026

28/10 Progressing the Make Fishing Fair Agenda

LIFE’s President Gwen Pennarun and the Secretariat, together with our partner organisation Blue Ventures, met with Costas Kadis and his Cabinet to advance discussions under the Make Fishing Fair agenda. The exchange focused on identifying concrete follow-up actions to the Make Fishing Fair Roadmap and on advocating for the inclusion of a dedicated Action Plan on Small-Scale Fisheries within the forthcoming EU Ocean Act.

This meeting followed the mobilisation held in Brussels in November 2025, where 50 small-scale fishers from 16 Member States, alongside decision-makers, civil servants, civil society organisations and industry stakeholders, gathered to call for fairer fisheries policies and recognition of small-scale fisheries at EU level. On that occasion, Commissioner Kadis publicly committed to making small-scale fisheries a priority of his mandate, as reflected in the European Ocean Pact.

During the follow-up discussions, the Make Fishing Fair team — composed of LIFE and Blue Ventures staff — reiterated the need to translate these political commitments into concrete policy action. In particular, we called for a dedicated Action Plan on Small-Scale Fisheries to be included in the EU Ocean Act as a key target, ensuring clear objectives, timelines and measurable outcomes for fishing communities.

While Commissioner Kadis showed openness to our proposals and engaged constructively with our demands, discussions also highlighted the persistent challenge of shared competences between EU institutions and Member States. Without effective implementation at national level, there is a real risk that progress will stall and the current status quo will persist.

LIFE remains determined to continue this work, both at EU and Member State level, to ensure that commitments under the Ocean Pact lead to tangible improvements for small-scale fishers and contribute to a fairer, more sustainable European fisheries policy.

11/12 A New Vision for Fair, Low-Impact Fisheries in Europe

LIFE and Seas At Risk have published A Vision for Fair, Low-Impact Fisheries in Europe, a document developed by a multi-disciplinary group of stakeholders to reflect the realities of fishing communities and to set out a shared direction for the future of European fisheries. The document calls for a just transition towards low-impact fishing practices that restore fish stocks, support coastal livelihoods and ensure fair access to resources.

The publication was formally presented at the Rethinking Fisheries event, held in the European Parliament under the guidance of MEP Thomas Bajada (S & D) and facilitated  by LIFE Executive Secretary Marta Cavallé and Seas At Risk Marine Director Tobias Troll. The event brought together fishers, scientists, civil society organisations and EU policymakers to discuss the vision’s key messages and policy implications.

A testimony from André Dias, a LIFE member from the Algarve in Portugal, highlighted the daily challenges faced by small-scale fishers, while scientific contributions from Didier Gascuel and Cristina Brice-Pita outlined the cultural, ecological and governance shifts required to deliver the transition set out in the document.

The discussion concluded with reflections from DG Mare on how the vision can inform work towards a 2040 outlook for EU fisheries and the development of a “regenerative blue economy”.

LIFE and Seas at Risk will continue disseminating this document and presenting it to concerned stakeholders and decision-makers, especially with a view of guiding the new 2040 Vision which will be produced by the European Commission/DG Mare in the upcoming months. 

10/12 LIFE General Assembly: Leadership, Priorities and New Initiatives

LIFE held its General Assembly with strong participation from across the membership, reflecting the diversity and commitment of the network. Full and Associate Members, observers and LIFE staff took part. 

The Assembly was formally opened by Gwen Pennarun, who was re-elected as President of LIFE, reaffirming the confidence of members in his leadership and continued mandate.

The General Assembly also discussed key strategic initiatives that will shape LIFE’s work in the coming period. These included the establishment of a Participative Guarantee System for Small-Scale Fisheries, aimed at strengthening recognition, trust and value for small-scale producers, as well as the launch of a Youth Network within LIFE, designed to engage young fishers and emerging fisheries leaders and to support generational renewal in the sector.

Looking ahead, members contributed actively to defining LIFE’s priorities for 2026, identifying shared challenges and areas for action. Core themes included the definition and recognition of small-scale fisheries, access to resources and fishing opportunities, maritime spatial planning, climate change impacts, generational renewal, and the need to better document and communicate the realities of small-scale fishing communities.

The General Assembly reaffirmed LIFE’s collective commitment to strengthening the voice of small-scale fishers and advancing fair and sustainable fisheries policies across Europe.

5/12 Restoring Fish Stocks: Science Must Deliver Recovery

Restoring Europe’s fish stocks and marine ecosystems must become an urgent political priority. For LIFE, this starts with fisheries management that genuinely applies the best available science, as required under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

Despite the CFP’s clear obligation to rebuild stocks above Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) levels, EU fisheries management has repeatedly fallen short. A key issue lies in how ICES scientific advice is produced and applied. Biological reference points have too often been treated as targets rather than safeguards, while important ecosystem dynamics remain insufficiently reflected in stock assessments. This has contributed to persistent low biomass levels and repeated stock declines across European waters.

Via an exchange of letters with DG Mare, LIFE is calling for a review of how ICES advice is developed and used, stronger ecosystem-based assessments, and management plans that actively support stock recovery. Reforming the EU–ICES framework is a necessary step to restore abundance, strengthen coastal fisheries and secure long-term sustainability.

LIFE has raised these concerns directly with the European Commission and stands ready to contribute to reforms that can deliver healthy seas, resilient fish stocks and viable coastal livelihoods.

10/12 Joint Call for Recovery-Oriented Fisheries Advice

Ahead of the 2025 December Fisheries Council, LIFE  joined recreational fishers and environmental NGOs in urging the European Commission to rethink how scientific advice on fishing opportunities is requested and used. In a joint letter to Commissioner Kadis, we call for fishing limits and underlying science to fully align with EU law and the objectives of the European Ocean Pact.

With several once-abundant fish stocks across European sea basins in decline, LIFE stresses the need for precautionary, ecosystem-based scientific advice that prioritises stock recovery. The upcoming renewal of the Commission’s agreements with ICES offers a key opportunity to ensure future advice supports rebuilding efforts and greater stakeholder involvement.

LIFE stands ready to engage with the Commission to help advance sustainable fisheries, healthy marine ecosystems and resilient coastal communities.

11/12 LIFE Stands with French Fishers in Call for Fairer Bluefin Tuna Allocation

Together with French small-scale fisheries organisations, we have addressed the French Minister of the Sea and Fisheries, Catherine Chabaud, to call for a fairer allocation of the newly increased bluefin tuna quota.

While welcoming the confirmed recovery of Mediterranean bluefin tuna and the resulting quota increase for 2026–2028, we underline that allocation based solely on historical catches continues to exclude most small-scale, low-impact fishers.

We are calling for an adjustment of allocation rules so that small-scale fleets, which play a vital role in coastal communities and marine stewardship, can access this vital resource. Even a limited rebalancing would strengthen small-scale fisheries while supporting traditional governance systems such as the Prud’homies.

12–14/1 LIFE Team Strategy Meeting

The LIFE team gathered for a multi-day Strategy Meeting to take stock of recent achievements and to identify strategic priorities for the coming period.
The meeting offered an important opportunity to strengthen internal cohesion, ensure strategic alignment, and collectively chart the way forward. Exchanges confirmed our shared determination to further amplify the representation of low-impact fishers at European level and to continue promoting more equitable and sustainable fisheries governance.

10/1 Implementation of the EU Fisheries Control Regulation

On 10 January, key provisions of the revised  EU Fisheries Control Regulation entered into force for fishing vessels exceeding 12 metres in length. All such vessels will be tracked, and electronic logbooks will be required to record catch data, including sensitive species by-catches. Mandatory digital, paperless, and traceable workflows for fishery products to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing will apply. 

Although the new provisions will not apply to small-scale vessels (under 12 metres) until 2028, fishers across Spain mobilised in demonstrations and a general strike organised by the inshore fishing sector. These actions reflect concerns that certain elements of the Regulation, as currently framed, could lead to excessive administrative requirements, added bureaucracy and potential safety implications at sea, without delivering proportional benefits in terms of effective fisheries control.

21–23/1 Stakeholder meetings with ICES regarding scientific advice

At the annual meetings between ICES and stakeholders from the Advisory Councils there were extensive discussions regarding the scientific advice process. The EU Commission announced that there will be a specific Baltic project that they will fund in order to develop rebuilding advice for the sea basin due to the poor status of most fish stocks. ICES presented information that showed more stocks than ever before are in very poor condition, with biomass levels below the lowest reference threshold. Moving forward they are looking to develop and integrate ecosystem and climate informed advice on fish stocks although there is not yet a scientific consensus on how this would look. The current advisory system has been particularly unsuccessful in contributing to the recovery of stocks that have collapsed or suffered from serious declines although ICES remains confident that their advice process still works well when stocks are in good shape, although climate change and changes in stock productivity add a layer of uncertainty.

26/1 Agriculture and Fisheries Council: Cyprus takes over Presidency of the EU, presents 6 month work programme and priorities

According to Maria Panayiotou, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of the Republic of Cyprus: “Agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture are at the core of the priorities of the Cyprus Presidency. Our aim is to strengthen the competitiveness, sustainability and attractiveness of the European agricultural and fisheries sector”. 

She emphasised that agriculture and fisheries are vital economic drivers that sustain Europe’s rural and coastal communities, ensure a stable supply of safe, high-quality food for all citizens while supporting strategic autonomy, environmental management, and the resilience of local regions. Priorities include: promoting a fair, competitive and sustainable primary production sector, taking forward a comprehensive approach to the future common agricultural policy (CAP) and of the common fisheries policy (CFP). Support for farmers and fishers was also referred to, as they face climate impacts, market disruptions, animal and plant health risks and rising production costs – all of which threaten the stability and viability of these critical sectors.

 26–27/1 Small-Scale Fishers of Mediterranean France Meet EU Decision-Makers

A delegation from the Fishing Prud’homies of Mediterranean France visited Brussels to engage in discussions with Commissioner Costas Kadis and Members of the European Parliament. The meetings addressed the pressing challenges faced by small-scale fisheries and coastal communities.

Central to the exchanges was the call for official recognition of the Prud’homies in their own right as  long-standing structures with a proven track record of good governance supporting low-impact fishing practices. Additional priorities included safeguarding fisheries polyvalence, securing equitable access to fishing opportunities, and reducing the regulatory and administrative burden borne by small-scale operators.

29/1 Committee of the Regions Consultation on the European Ocean Pact

LIFE took part in a roundtable discussion convened by the European Committee of the Regions on the opinion entitled “The Common Fisheries Policy, the European Ocean Pact and the Union’s maritime and aquaculture policy within the National and Regional Partnership Fund”, hosted by Rapporteur Thibaut Guignard.

The discussion brought together representatives from regional authorities, the fishing and aquaculture sectors, and non-governmental organisations. Many contributors emphasised the importance of allocating dedicated funding to small-scale operators — including fishers, mussel producers and their representative organisations — in order to address the ageing state of the fleet, enhance competitiveness, support generational renewal and improve access to public financial instruments. The restoration of fish stocks was also highlighted as a core prerequisite for the long-term resilience of the sector. LIFE took the opportunity to call for an Action Plan on Small-Scale Fisheries to be an integral part of the Ocean Act as the last possible chance to revitalize the small-scale sector, at high risk of completely disappearing in the next few years. 

Round goby project

Work has continued on evaluating the results of test fishing conducted by LIFE members together with scientists. New, selective gear have been designed and trialled with catches from a variety of gears being evaluated. In addition, interviews have been carried out that will inform a business case study that will be compiled during 2026. Policy work summarising the barriers preventing the fishery for round goby, an invasive species, expanding throughout the Baltic is taking place in parallel to the other activities. Finally, fish buyers such as processors, restauranters and local government kitchens have been utilising and testing the product.

Coming up

5-7/2 Brest, France : Festival de la pêche artisanale 

17/2 Brussels, Belgium:  Second High-Level Conference on Energy Transition for the EU fisheries and aquaculture Sector 

Press Review

An important new report on “Assessing the impact of seafood imports on EU self-sufficiency” has been published by the European Parliament Pech Committee 

Fishermen in northern Norway are waiting for decisions from the authorities on opening a fishery for invasive Pacific pink salmon. 

A French court has upheld an appeal by small-scale fishermen’s organisations in Brittany that hinges on the definition of a four-door trawl rig as demersal or pelagic fishing:

“Four-panel trawling” in Brittany: appeal on points of law lodged by the Regional Fisheries Committee – PR by LIFE members Association des Ligneurs de la Pointe de Bretagne

Iceland’s Small Boat Owners Demand Ban on Capelin Pair Trawling

Octopus Bloom Off Southwest UK Signals Warming Seas

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

LIFE Elects its New Board of Directors 

LIFE is pleased to announce the election of its new Board of Directors, bringing together a diverse group of representatives from across Europe’s main sea basins. This renewed leadership reflects LIFE’s commitment to ensuring that the voices and perspectives of small-scale fishers are heard from the Baltic and North Sea to the Mediterranean and Black Sea. The newly elected Board will guide LIFE’s strategic direction and strengthen its role in advocating for sustainable and fair fisheries.

New BOD composition:

Mediterranean and Black Sea Region: 

Federico Gelmi, Associazione Pescatori di Pantelleria (Italy)

Kazimir Bogović, Udruga malih priobalnih ribara Jadrana (Croatia) 

Macarena Molina, Pescartes (Spain)

Baltic and North Sea Region: 

Bengt Larsson, SYEF (Sweden)

Kasia Stepanowska, Darłowska Group of Fish Producers and Shipowners (Poland) 

Erik Meyer, Fischereischutzverband Schleswig-Holstein (Germany)

Atlantic Region: 

Gwen Pennarun, Brittany Handliners Association (France)

Sharing seats North Atlantic: Seamus Bonner, IIMRO (Ireland) / Bally Philp, SCFF (UK) 

South Atlantic: Sandra Amezaga, Mulleres Salgadas (Spain) / David Pavon, Cofradia el Hierro (Spain)

With a refreshed Board, LIFE looks forward to continuing its mission to empower small-scale fishers and champion sustainable, low-impact fisheries across Europe.

24/11 LIFE Calls for an EU Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries at Implementation Dialogue with Commissioner Kadis

LIFE took part in the Implementation Dialogue on Small-Scale and Coastal Fisheries, the second in a series of such stakeholder dialogues, organised by the European Commission and hosted by Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis. Representing LIFE, Marta Cavallé, Executive Secretary, delivered a strong message on behalf of Europe’s small-scale, low-impact fishers, calling for urgent and concrete action to secure their future.

In her intervention, Marta stressed that despite decades of political recognition of small-scale fisheries (SSF), this has yet to translate into meaningful improvements. She highlighted the outcomes of the recent Make Fishing Fair Forum, where 43 fishers from 16 countries warned that Europe has reached a tipping point of decline and cannot afford further delay in restoring fish stocks, safeguarding coastal livelihoods and ensuring fair access to resources.

LIFE urged the EU to adopt a Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries in Europe by 2026, rooted in the FAO SSF Guidelines and based on a differentiated approach between small-scale and larger-scale fisheries. LIFE also submitted detailed written responses to Commission’s questions outlining barriers for generational renewal, barriers faced by SSF in accessing EU funding, the need for ring-fenced budgets, tailored capacity-building, recognition of SSF Producer Organisations, and concrete measures to ensure that administrative and regulatory systems are truly fit for purpose. Additional recommendations addressed data gaps, fisher-led technologies, co-management, climate adaptation, and the training needs required for a modern, resilient SSF workforce.

LIFE welcomed the Commissioner’s commitment to continuing this dialogue, but emphasised that, within the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), Europe already has the tools to act. By adopting a Plan of Action with a binding timeline and embedding it in the upcoming Ocean Act, the EU can ensure that the SSF can play its part in restoring its seas, promoting responsible fisheries, and ensuring that coastal communities thrive.

As Marta concluded: “It is time to recognise small-scale fishers not as the past, but as part of the future of sustainable European fisheries. Together, we can make fishing fair.”

17/11 LIFE Unites Small-Scale Fishers in Brussels for the Make Fishing Fair Forum

LIFE, in tight cooperation with Blue Ventures, brought together 43 small-scale fishers from 16 European countries in Brussels as part of the Make Fishing Fair Forum.

Fishers in the room reiterated what LIFE has long warned: after years of policies favouring industrial fleets, Europe’s inshore fish stocks are collapsing and small-scale fishers are being pushed to the brink. The fishers at the Forum made a unified call for an EU Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fishing by 2026, aligned with the FAO SSF Guidelines, to rebuild stocks, secure access in coastal waters, ensure fair allocation, strengthen co-management and support new entrants. LIFE asserts that the Plan, part of a wider Make Fishing Fair Roadmap, should be included in the Ocean Act with a binding timeline for Institutions and Member States. 

Commissioner Kadis, who addressed fishers and stakeholders in the afternoon session of the event. He asserted that “our small-scale fisheries are vital to the heart of our coastal communities”, acknowledged the urgency, noting the crises in the Baltic and Mediterranean and the importance of upcoming EU processes, including the 2026 Ocean Act. A number of LIFE members took the floor, including: Gwen Pennarun (LIFE), Muireann Kavanagh (IIMRO), Evelina Doseva (European Association European Association of fishermen at the black sea), Patricia Bros (Asociación de atuneros con linea de mano del mediterráneo), Søren Jacobsen (FSK-PO), Noora Huusari (Snowchange), Ken Kawahara (Association des Ligneurs de la pointe de Bretagne). Fishers on the panel and in the audience shared practical examples of best practices and low-impact solutions, while highlighting persistent political and legal barriers that hinder progress. A stakeholders’ panel presented diverse perspectives on advancing justice in EU fisheries policy, with contributions from Charles Braine (Pleine Mer and Poiscaille), Bellinda Bartolucci (ClientEarth), and MEP Luke Ming Flanagan (The Left), who highlighted the need for the EU to protect small-scale fisheries jobs and way of life. MEP Gabriel Mato (EPP) also intervened to underscore the importance of the small-scale fisheries sector.

For LIFE, the MFF Forum confirmed the strong unity among Europe’s small-scale fishers. Their shared experience and determination form a powerful foundation for pushing the EU toward genuinely fair, sustainable and inclusive fisheries.

14/11 Commission Publishes Vademecum on Article 17

The long awaited Vademecum contains guidelines that seek to help EU countries in supporting small-scale fishers and enhancing transparency and good governance in the allocation of fishing opportunities by EU countries. According to Commissioner Kadis “These guidelines invite EU countries to reflect on the allocation of fishing opportunities, bearing in mind that small-scale fishers are the most vulnerable to structural and unexpected challenges. Small-scale fishers are the backbone of our coastal communities. We must recognise their role and provide them with the necessary support”.

4-5/11 Energy Transition in Fisheries – From Visions to Actions

The Conference on Energy Transition in Fisheries – From Visions to Actions took place in Helsinki, bringing together Northern European stakeholders to discuss practical steps toward decarbonising the fisheries sector. LIFE was represented by Christian Tsangarides, Baltic and North Sea Coordinator, who contributed to the panel discussion “Can Decarbonization in Fisheries Be Achieved by 2050?”, where the discussion explored what can already be done to reduce emissions, the medium-term technologies that could be adopted without compromising the economic viability of fishing vessels, the long-term outlook for developing and deploying carbon-free fuels, and the need for tailored approaches that reflect the different realities of small and larger vessels. With a focus on the Northern European fisheries sector, pitches from entrepreneurs for solutions to the energy transition were presented with the winning entry being for solar powered electric boats.

5-6/11  Round Goby Project: Meeting & Study Visit in Lithuania

On 5–6 November, LIFE took part in a two-day meeting of the Round Goby project and study visit in Lithuania, organised jointly by project partners Submariner, KTU Food Institute, MCS and SLU. The visit provided valuable insight into Lithuania’s coastal fisheries, processing sector and the ongoing pilot activities within the Interreg Round Goby project.

The first day began with a study visit to Baltijos Konservai, a canning factory processing a variety of Baltic species. Participants had the opportunity to observe the production process and taste prototypes of canned round goby developed within the project.

This was followed by a field visit to meet local small-scale coastal fishers operating in the Klaipėda region. Lithuania’s coastal fishery is organised into 29 commercial fishing areas where operations are  carried out by approximately 50–60 active fishers, each holding transferable fishing rights tied to specific gears. The main species caught with fyke nets and gillnets include smelt, Baltic herring, round goby, plaice and sprat, with total coastal landings amounting to around 300–600 tonnes annually.

Round goby fishing is concentrated in northern coastal zones close to the Latvian border. Despite being a profitable segment—with average margins around 38%—the fishery has declined by 72% (from 228 tonnes in 2016 to about 64 tonnes in 2023), likely due to reduced opportunities for cod and herring. Today, about 18 fishers target round goby, and five companies account for roughly 90% of landings. Much of the catch is exported to Latvia for processing and then further distributed to the Black Sea region.

18/11 S&D event: the Future of the Common Fisheries Policy

LIFE staff and members from Spain, Denmark and Norway took part in a high-level event organised by the Socialists and Democrats Group in the European Parliament, dedicated to the scientific, environmental, social and economic dimensions of fisheries policy. Christian Tsangarides, LIFE’s Baltic and North Sea Coordinator, contributed to Panel 1: “The science of fishing and fishing with science,” alongside experts from the Spanish Institute of Oceanography and the Azores Fisheries Observer Programme. When tackling the issue of stock status, Christian emphasised: “we want a full commitment to putting more fish back in the sea — this must be the foundation of our policy. The current scientific ‘recipe’ is not one for Europe, not one for small-scale fishers, and certainly not one for the future.” LIFE welcomed the opportunity to bring the perspectives of small-scale, low-impact fishers into these key political discussions.

Press review: 

Make Fishing Fair event:  Fish Focus, The Skipper, Commissioner’s speech, Fisker Forum, ilgiornaledeimarinai, The Fishing Daily, Through The Gaps! Newlyn News, Mundus Maris, La Nazione

LIFE Members from France meet with new national Fisheries Minister,  Catherine Chabaud

Publication of the 2025 Annual Economic Report on the EU Fishing Fleet (STECF 25-03 & 25-07)  

The EU Pushes for Transparency and Sustainability in Fisheries Quota Allocation

The Pointe Bretagne Hand Liners call for support to combat the use of high open bottom trawls (“4 door trawls”) in the coastal zone, within the 3 to 9 mile zone (in French):  

EU secures 17% increase of bluefin tuna fishing quota at ICCAT annual meeting 

FAO publishes interactive map on the state of world marine fishery resources 

UK publishes quota application mechanism with call to POs and over 10 metre non-sector vessel owners to apply for 2026 English quota, with environmental and socio-economic justifications required

Coming up:

10/12, online: LIFE’s Board of Directors meeting and General Assembly

11/12 in the European Parliament, Brussels: LIFE and Sea at Risk are organising the event “Rethink Fisheries – A vision for low impact and fair fisheries in Europe”. 

After two years of collaborative work involving fishers, civil society, scientists, and actors across the seafood value chain, we are excited to present a shared Vision for a just transition toward low-impact and fair fisheries in Europe. Join us and register here. 

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

8/10 LIFE Board of Directors meet to discuss direction for 2025/2026

The Secretariat updated the Board of Directors (BOD) the most recent on developments, with a focus on the upcoming Small-Scale Fisheries Implementation Dialogue and LIFE’s role in it. This round-table is an integral part of the EU Commissioner’s Mission, and is scheduled for November 24. For LIFE, it highlights important political capital and an important not to be missed opportunity. A key highlight of the meeting was the approval of the application of the Norwegian Association “Norges Kystfiskarlag” as Associate Members, further strengthening LIFE’s representation in Northern Europe. Recommendations for responding to the issue of a Small-Scale Fisheries Advisory Council were also agreed alongside the Make Fishing Fair Roadmap, with key priorities and format of a call to action that will be discussed during a dedicated event in Brussels on the 17 of November.

The upcoming Elective General Assembly and enhancing LIFE’s engagement within the Advisory Councils were also discussed. LIFE’s BOD remains committed to advancing the voice and rights of small-scale fishers across Europe, with renewed energy and solidarity.

8/10 New members on board: small-scale fishers from Norway join LIFE 

LIFE is pleased to welcome Norges Kystfiskarlag, representing Norway’s small-scale fishers, as a new member of the network. With over 400 vessels committed to low-impact, sustainable fishing, Norges Kystfiskarlag brings valuable experience and a strong voice from Norway’s coastal communities. Their membership strengthens cooperation across the North Sea region, enhancing joint efforts toward fair, sustainable, and resilient fisheries management in Europe’s northern waters.

13/10-17/10 LIFE at Ocean Week 2025

LIFE actively participated in this year’s EU Ocean Week which took place in the European Parliament, engaging in key debates on sustainable fisheries, equitable funding, and community-based ocean governance.

Brian O’Riordan, LIFE Policy Advisor, joined the panel of an event on EU funding organised by ClientEarth alongside Seas At Risk and BirdLife to discuss the urgent need to rethink EU fisheries subsidies under the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The initiative was hosted by French MEP Yon Courtin, and the discussion highlighted how current funding through the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) continues to favour large-scale industrial fleets, calling instead for fair and sustainable financing that supports small-scale, low-impact fishers and healthy marine ecosystems.

Praising the Communty-Led Local Development (CLLD) approach, LIFE emphasised that for small-scale fishers to benefit from sectoral support going forward, three prerequisite conditions need to be met: 

• Recognition of their strategic socio-economic role in EU fisheries with the political will to support them;
• Targeted aid/ Small-scale Fisheries action plan and a ring fenced budget; and
• A fit for purpose aid delivery system taking the special characteristics of SSF into account 

LIFE staff also attended an event organised by Blue Marine and Oceano Azul, hosted by MEP Paulo do Nascimento Cabral, which focused on community engagement in the designation and management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The event highlighted successful examples from across Europe and reaffirmed the importance of involving local fishers and coastal communities in achieving the EU’s goal of protecting 30% of its seas by 2030. It featured testimonies from fishers from mainland Portugal, Greece, and Italy, and included an address by EU Commissioner Costas Kadis.

Finally, LIFE participated in the FishSec event “Small Fish, Big Impact: Time for Ecosystem-Based Management,” chaired by MEP Isabella Lövin. The discussion underscored the crucial role of small pelagic species such as sprat, herring, and sandeel in maintaining marine ecosystem health and called for their sustainable, ecosystem-based management across Europe.

In parallel, LIFE’s Executive Secretary, Marta Cavallé, attended the European Foundations for Sustainable Agriculture and Food (EFSAF) gathering, joining civil society actors working toward a fair and sustainable agri-food transition. Her participation helped align small-scale fisheries priorities with regenerative food movements and explore synergies between ocean and land-based communities for resilient, nature-positive food systems.

Through these engagements, LIFE continues to advocate for sustainability, fairness, and community participation at the heart of EU ocean and fisheries policies.

16/10 LIFE Responds to the EC Proposal for Baltic Sea Fishing Opportunities 2026

On 16 October, LIFE attended the European Parliament’s PECH Committee, where the European Commission presented its proposal for 2026 Baltic Sea fishing opportunities.

LIFE welcomes the proposal as a step toward stock recovery, but warns that the small-scale coastal fishery (SSCF) — which represents 92% of the fleet and 77% of fishing employment — continues to bear a disproportionate share of the recovery burden. LIFE calls for quota cuts to be directed toward the industrial pelagic fleet, which dominates Baltic catches and supplies fishmeal largely for export, while maintaining limited SSCF access and addressing ecological pressures such as prey depletion and unmanaged predators.

Following the Council’s decision, LIFE expresses deep disappointment. Ministers allocate nearly 97% of the total Baltic commercial catch to herring and sprat, most destined for fishmeal and export — a choice that favours short-term industrial gains over ecosystem recovery and the survival of coastal fisheries.

Despite encouraging signals from Commissioner Costas Kadis, who prioritises reversing the decline in the Baltic, the Council’s actions fall short. The 45% increase in the sprat quota, based on uncertain scientific assumptions, risks repeating past mistakes and undermines fragile stocks.

LIFE continues to call for prudence and fairness in Baltic fisheries management — to rebuild ecosystems, restore livelihoods, and secure a sustainable future for small-scale fishers.

22/10 LIFE members excluded from market as they lack MSC certification

When one of our members went to deliver herring to a local processor, they received bad news. The supermarket chain that they supplied would now only accept fish that came from trawlers because they were MSC certified. After journalists reported on the story there have been further discussions on creating a solution but at present fishing with selective, low impact methods means they are excluded from the market. This highlights how important LIFE’s work to establish a Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) for small-scale fisheries is key for their viability.

31/10 LIFE follows up with the Commission and ICES regarding scientific advice

In a continuation of the dialogue that we began in May with a letter to Commissioner Costas Kadis, LIFE has recommended that the request from the EU for scientific advice on the management of fish stocks is adjusted so that the models used for advice aim to provide moreand larger fish. 

With the 5 year Framework Partnership Agreement between the Commission and ICES due to expire next year and the upcoming discussions regarding the Annual Grant Agreement we see an opportunity to improve the basis upon which management takes its decisions and thereby implements the Common Fisheries Policy more successfully.

As we have seen in the recent discussions on Baltic quotas, the interpretation of ICES advice has become a key part of the negotiations while the need for rebuilding advice is long overdue.

We make two recommendations for immediate improvements to the scientific advice. Firstly, mixed unsorted catches from the industrial fleet should be controlled by eDNA when landings exceed 1 tonne. This would improve data quality by accurately recording bycatch and species composition. Secondly, thresholds should be revised so that stocks are kept to at least 40% of their original size while fishing on small pelagic species and prey stocks should be limited so as to improve biodiversity and ecosystem health.

23-24/10 – 29th Meeting of the Member States Expert Group on Maritime Spatial Planning (MSEG) in Limassol, Cyprus.

Earlier this year, LIFE was accepted as an observer to the MSEG — a forum where Member States exchange knowledge and experiences on Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP). LIFE attended this meeting remotely in its observer capacity.

A significant part of the discussions focused on the implementation dialogue held in July, the supporting studies, and the future revision of the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive (MSPD). As outlined in the Ocean Pact, the European Commission plans to propose an “Ocean Act”, which will include a revision of the MSPD and an initiative on ocean observation. Consequently, much of the meeting was dedicated to engaging with Member States on the forthcoming MSPD/Ocean Act revision.

Energy Transition Partnership: next steps

The Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) process to develop contributions for a future Roadmap for the Energy Transition in Europe is reaching a crucial and decisive stage.

Following numerous meetings throughout the year with both the SSF Working Group and the wider Support Group, the SSF Working Group has finalised its sectoral recommendations for the Energy Transition. These have been submitted to DG MARE and the ETP Assistance Mechanism.

The entire Support Group is now discussing the joint recommendations, which will highlight the points of convergence across different sectors. The final document is expected to be published by December.

LIFE Baltic Coordinator Interviewed by Swedish Radio on Salmon Bycatch

LIFE’s Baltic and North Sea Coordinator, Christian Tsangarides, was recently interviewed by a Swedish Radio on the issue of salmon bycatch in the Baltic Sea.

Christian explained LIFE’s mission as an organisation that unites small-scale fishers and members committed to low-impact, environmentally responsible fishing. He highlighted that up to 100,000 salmon may be caught as bycatch in the Baltic each year — a figure that, while uncertain and based on older estimates, underscores the urgent need for better data and monitoring.

He noted that new tools such as environmental DNA (eDNA) could play a key role in improving knowledge on salmon bycatch and assessing whether it poses a threat to wild salmon populations. eDNA works by analysing genetic material shed by organisms into their environment, allowing scientists to identify species, support stock assessments, and even trace illegal or unreported catches without the need for direct capture.

The interview also features the perspective of Dennis Bergman, a Swedish small-scale fisher, who explains why salmon is so vital to small-scale fisheries and coastal communities across the Baltic region.

Coming up:

4-5/11 Helsinki, Finland – Energy Transition in Fisheries, from visions to action: The Conference on Energy Transition in Fisheries brings together Northern European stakeholders to define concrete actions for a decarbonization of the fisheries sector.

17/11 Brussels, Belgium – Via their Make Fishing Fair campaign, LIFE and Blue Ventures bring together 45 fishers from 17 countries across Europe to meet with EU Commissioner Costas Kadis, MEPs and stakeholders to present their priorities and demands for resilient, fair, and profitable small-scale fisheries.

17-18/11 Viimsi,Tallinn, Estonia – Baltic Sea Regional Forum for the EU Mission on Adaptation to Climate Change: the Forum will have a special focus on the Baltic region and bring together regional and local leaders, Mission Ocean Charter Signatories, policymakers, experts, and project practitioners to share best practices in climate adaptation and resilience. 

24/11 Brussels, Belgium – Implementation Dialogue on Small-Scale Fisheries – the European Commission will host an Implementation Dialogue on Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF), bringing together stakeholders to discuss progress and next steps in advancing the SSF sector across Europe. The meeting aims to ensure effective implementation of policies supporting small-scale fisheries.

News about fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant fishing communities

2/9 Baltic Quota Proposals 2026: LIFE Calls for Fairer Burden-Sharing on Quota Cuts to Protect Small-Scale Fisheries

The European Commission has proposed a total Baltic Sea quota of 295,000 tonnes for 2026, over 96% of which is concentrated in herring and sprat for the pelagic fleet. LIFE warns that the steepest cuts — salmon (-27%), western Baltic cod (-84%) and spring-spawning herring (-50%) — fall on the small-scale coastal sector, which makes up 92% of the fleet but is already struggling after a 36% fall in the value of catches between 2018 and 2022.

LIFE calls for a fairer and more balanced approach: maintaining quotas closer to 2025 TACs, reintroducing derogations for vessels under 12m with passive gears, focusing reductions on industrial pelagic fisheries that supply fishmeal for non-EU markets, and improving monitoring of unrecorded bycatch. Without these adjustments, the Commission’s plan risks undermining vulnerable small-scale fishers rather than addressing the true drivers of stock decline. 

3/9 LIFE on the Panel at European Parliament Conference “Baltic Sea Bankruptcy”

On 3 September, LIFE took part in the European Parliament conference “Baltic Sea Bankruptcy – a changed climate, broken economy and ecosystem”, hosted by MEP Isabella Lövin, Vice-Chair of the SEArica Intergroup. The event brought together policymakers, scientists and stakeholders to discuss how climate change, ecosystem collapse and flawed fisheries management are undermining the Baltic’s resilience.

LIFE’s Baltic and North Sea Coordinator, Christian Tsangarides, joined the panel, stressing the urgent need for a fairer, more balanced approach to fisheries management that recognises the role of small-scale fishers in sustaining coastal communities and rebuilding the sea’s ecological health. LIFE underlined that solutions must focus on restoring fish stocks, ensuring equitable burden-sharing, strengthening the robustness of ICES advice, and addressing the imbalance whereby cuts consistently fall on small-scale fisheries while pelagic fleets targeting herring and sprat remain largely untouched. Only by tackling these challenges head-on can the long-term socio-economic and ecological sustainability of the Baltic Sea be secured.

9/9 LIFE at the Economist’s World Ocean Summit Europe

On 9 September, LIFE Senior Advisor Jeremy Percy attended the World Ocean Summit Europe in Cascais, Portugal, convened by the Economist Impact’s World Ocean Initiative. Building on outcomes from the UN Ocean Conference and following earlier summits in Tokyo and Lisbon, the event gathered policymakers, investors, industry leaders, scientists and NGOs to shape Europe’s role in future ocean governance and the sustainable blue economy.

In a forum dominated by discussions on technology, mega funds, investment returns and the broader “blue economy,” traditional fisheries were largely absent from the agenda. As one of the very few fishermen in the room, Jeremy Percy brought that perspective to the table, highlighting the realities and challenges facing the sector during his panel intervention. Despite limited speaking time, he was able to underline the importance of small-scale fisheries in any sustainable ocean strategy. His presence served as a timely reminder that, amid the focus on finance and innovation, fishing communities must not be overlooked in the conversation about the future of our seas.

18-19/9 “LIFE President Gwen Pennarun Brings Small-Scale Fishers’ Voice to Les Assises de la Pêche et de la Mer”

On 18–19 September, LIFE President Gwen Pennarun took part in the 15th edition of Les Assises de la Pêche et de la Mer in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France’s leading fishing port and seafood hub. For over a decade, this annual gathering has been a key forum for reflection and debate on the future of the fisheries and seafood sector.

Gwen Pennarun used the occasion to underline LIFE’s concerns about the latest ICES assessments for sea bass, which appear far removed from fishers’ observations. He also raised alarm over the recent CRPM deliberation on “four-panel bottom trawls,” which in practice are pelagic trawls operating in coastal waters, with serious implications for ecosystems and small-scale fisheries. On the opening day, he also engaged with IFSEA students, presenting LIFE’s work at local, regional and EU levels, and discussing how to empower fishers to co-manage their fishing grounds and secure fair and sustainable prices. His contributions ensured that the voice of small-scale fishers — and the future of those training to join the sector — were central to the discussions.

23/9 PECH Committee Challenges New EU Budget Proposal, and the €2bn Reserved for Fisheries 

The PECH Committee meeting saw a meeting with Commissioner Costas Kadis defending the EU budget – the Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) for the next period – 2028-34. Within the new MFF, there is no dedicated fisheries fund as such. Rather, in the main, fisheries will have to apply for funding under new “National and Regional Partnership Plans” (NRPP), where the minimum amount reserved for fisheries is stated to be   €2 billion over the 7 year period. 

The proposal came under fire from MEPs across the political spectrum, who criticised it as a drastic reduction compared to the € 6 billion under the current EMFAF. Several MEPs also criticised the NRPP approach as “renationalising the CFP”. Despite assurances that €2 billion was only a minimum allocation and part of a reorganisation of funds, the Commissioner struggled to convince MEPs and at times to respond to their concerns.

Director Stylianos Mitolidis (DG MARE) clarified that the new budget shifts from “prescribed eligibility” to a “needs and performance” basis, applying the principle of “do no harm.” Decarbonisation, green transition, and sectoral development will fall under the EU Competitiveness Fund, while most fisheries financing would flow through National and Regional Partnership Plans. However, the move sparked fears of renationalisation: how to ensure a level playing field if some Member States modernise their fleets while others do not, or between coastal and landlocked states? Several MEPs also raised the lack of stakeholder involvement in shaping the new framework.

Interventions by MEPs Isabella Lövin, Luke Ming Flanagan, and Thomas Bajada highlighted broader concerns. Lövin drew attention to the dire state of EU seas — from warming Mediterranean waters to the crisis in the Baltic — and asked how support would deliver on environmental commitments. Flanagan and Carmen Crespo warned of misplaced priorities, pointing out that while rearmament budgets are rising five-fold, agriculture is cut by 30% and fisheries by 60%, undermining food security and food sovereignty.

Beyond the fund, Kadis flagged three main priorities: the situation in the Baltic and the Mediterranean, the upcoming CFP evaluation, and the Energy Transition Roadmap for 2026. On the Small-Scale Fisheries Advisory Council, he expressed strong support, though it remains unclear whether its establishment is tied to the CFP revision.

For a deeper, more detailed LIFE analysis of the proposed funding shift, including how small-scale fisheries might fare under the new architecture, read our dedicated article. 

Other News

African Artisanal Fishers Commended by FAO for Contribution to Sustainable Aquatic Food Systems

 African Confederation of Professional Organisations of Artisanal Fisheries (CAOPA) has been selected by the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations in recognition of its contribution to deliver sustainable aquatic food systems. A recognition ceremony will take place at FAO headquarters on October 15, 2025, as part of the FAO 80th Anniversary celebrations, to be held during the FAO World Food Forum 2025.

Small-scale Fisheries Feature Big in Irish Sea Fisheries Board Annual Report, but Present Several Paradoxes

The report highlights that the SSF sector, comprising all vessels under 12 meters regardless of gear type, represents the numerical heart of Irish fishing with 1,164 active vessels – 84% of the total active fleet. These predominantly family-owned operations, scattered along Ireland’s extensive coastline, serve as economic anchors for remote coastal communities where alternative employment opportunities remain scarce.

Despite representing just 7% of the fleet’s total engine power and 25% of gross tonnage, the SSF sector punches well above its weight in employment terms, providing 974 full-time equivalent positions – a remarkable 56% of all national FTEs in the fishing sector. This statistic underscores the labour-intensive nature of inshore operations and their crucial role in maintaining the social fabric of coastal Ireland.

One of the SSF sector’s strongest attributes lies in its fuel efficiency, making it a strategic option for energy transition to low carbon production. Small potting vessels demonstrated remarkable efficiency at 358 litres per tonne landed – a stark contrast to the 1,100+ litres required by larger demersal trawlers.

In 2023 the sector experienced an 11% decline in revenue and a 9% drop in Gross Value Added (GVA) compared to 2022.  However, it simultaneously achieved a spectacular 180% increase in gross profit to €10.9 million.

The high proportion of unpaid labour in SSF operations – 41% of vessels reported having at least one unpaid male worker – highlights the family-based nature of many operations. While this provides operational flexibility and helps maintain viability during challenging periods, it also raises questions about fair compensation and social protection for family members contributing to fishing operations.

Planetary Health Check 2025: 7 out of 9 Critical Earth System Boundaries have been Breached

The nine boundaries together form Earth’s operating system, the interconnected life-support processes that must stay within safe limits to keep humanity safe and the natural world resilient. Scientists monitor these boundaries through key measures, much like vital signs in a health check, to track the planet’s condition. The findings point to accelerating deterioration and growing risk of irreversible change, including a higher risk of tipping points. 

In 2025, scientists warn that yet another “planetary boundary,” ocean acidification, has been crossed.

Findings of the European Parliament Study on the Baltic Multiannual Plan: Critical Status of Key Fish Stocks

On September 4, the findings of the study commissioned by the EP on the multiannual plan for the Baltic Sea and ways forward were presented. The study reveals “that four of the seven Baltic fish stocks managed under the MAP—both cod stocks (Eastern Baltic cod – EBC, and Western Baltic cod – WBC) and the open-sea herring stocks (Central Baltic herring – CBH, and Western Baltic spring spawning herring – WBSSH)—are critically endangered, with spawning stock biomass far below the limit under which the reproductive capacity of fish population is impaired (Blim)”. It concludes that “the MAP has largely failed to achieve its objective of restoring and maintaining harvested species populations above MSY levels. Overfishing has pushed many stocks into low productivity states, where critically low biomass impairs their reproductive capacity, leading to a decoupling of stock size from fishing pressure and making recovery difficult even with reduced fishing efforts.”

Coming up

13-19/10 Brussels, Belgium – Ocean week 2025 – A week of debates, exhibitions and other events to celebrate Europe’s seas and explore how to rebuild their abundance.  Events include: 

• 14/10 in the EP The next MFF: Rethinking EU funding for a healthy ocean future (LIFE Policy Advisor Brian O’Riordan on the panel) 
• 15/10 in the EP: Community Engagement in MPA Designation and Management

14/10 Ljubljana, Slovenia. MedAC Focus Group on Small-Scale Fisheries meeting. Registration by 7 October . 

27-28/10 Brussels, Belgium –  The EU Council will make the final decision on Baltic Sea fishing quotas for the year 2026

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