Progress Towards Sustainable Fisheries in the Mediterranean and Black Sea: Key Outcomes from the 47th GFCM Annual Meeting –
From November 4–8, 2024, Rome hosted the 47th annual meeting of the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), where the European Union and neighboring countries reached significant agreements to bolster the sustainability of marine ecosystems in the Mediterranean and Black Sea. These measures mark a critical step forward in ensuring sustainable fisheries management and biodiversity conservation across the region.
Strengthening Regional Sustainability Strategies
Participants at the meeting emphasized the importance of advancing sustainability through subregional cooperation and reinforcing management frameworks, particularly in the Adriatic and Black Seas. These strategies align with the principles of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and underline the EU’s leadership role as the primary financial contributor to these initiatives.
New Measures to Protect Biodiversity and Improve Fisheries Management
Key measures adopted during the meeting include:
1-Establishment of a Fisheries Restricted Area (FRA) in the Otranto Channel
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- The first-ever shared FRA between EU and non-EU countries, resulting from scientific collaboration between Italy and Albania.
- Aimed at protecting vulnerable marine ecosystems like bamboo coral (Isidella elongata) and essential fish habitats for demersal species.
- Together with the Jabuka Pomo FRA, this makes the Adriatic subregion a leader in seabed protection in the Mediterranean.
2-Holistic Fisheries Management in the Adriatic Sea
- Under EU leadership, the GFCM adopted advanced measures for sustainable fisheries management in the Adriatic.
- The new harvest strategy for long-term stock sustainability supports fleet profitability and strengthens management frameworks for demersal and small pelagic species.
3-Expanded Protection for Norway Lobster Stocks
- Two additional closure areas complement the Jabuka-Pomo Pit FRA, showcasing the benefits of conservation-focused management.
Advancing Sustainability in the Black Sea
The GFCM also adopted critical measures for the Black Sea, including:
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- Enhanced management for key commercial species such as turbot, Rapa whelk, and sprat.
- Conservation measures for sensitive species like sturgeon, including a total fishing ban in marine waters.
- Strengthened scientific cooperation to improve data collection for future conservation efforts.
Reinforcing Regional Solidarity and Compliance
The EU and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing while fostering a culture of compliance and solidarity among Mediterranean countries. The meeting also launched discussions on a post-2026 framework for the MedFish4Ever Ministerial Declaration, building on the progress achieved under the current governance structure.
Next Steps
The Council of the European Union will finalize fishing opportunities-related measures for the Mediterranean and Black Sea at a meeting on December 9–10, 2024.
Background on GFCM
The GFCM, a regional fisheries management organization established under the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), plays a pivotal role in fisheries conservation and aquaculture development. Its decisions, supported by commitments from the MedFish4Ever and Sofia Ministerial Declarations, focus on reversing overfishing, protecting marine ecosystems, and enhancing the resilience and profitability of the fisheries sector.
EU Leadership and Commitment
Executive Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič, responsible for the European Green Deal, remarked:
“I welcome the progress we are making with our regional partners around the Mediterranean on improving the sustainable management of our shared stocks. This is part of the EU’s strategic approach to our fisheries external action. By promoting a zero-tolerance approach to illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing and the management principles of the Common Fisheries Policy, we are ensuring a level playing field for all operators in the region. This consolidates the EU’s vision of healthy seas and thriving coastal communities in the EU and beyond.”
Learn More
General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean – 2030 Strategy
General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean – Management Plans
Progress Towards Sustainable Fisheries in the Mediterranean and Black Sea: Key Outcomes from the 47th GFCM Annual Meeting
