Open Letter to MEPs: Protect the EU Definition of Small-Scale Fisheries

Following last week’s European Parliament hearing on small-scale fisheries, LIFE has addressed an open letter to MEPs urging them to protect the sector in upcoming policy votes. Ahead of the crucial 10 November vote on Procedure 2025/0235(COD), we strongly oppose proposals to alter the definition of small-scale coastal fishing. Adopting a flexible “3 out of 5 criteria” model risks distorting EU fisheries policy and diluting targeted support for genuine small-scale fishers.

Read our full position letter and voting recommendations here.