European Commission | Policy | Report |
The European Union (EU) Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), formalized in 2013, is a cornerstone for achieving environmental, economic, and social sustainability in marine wild capture fisheries. It promotes science-based management, regionalization, discard bans, fleet controls, and measures against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. In 2023, the European Commission advanced this framework through a comprehensive “Fisheries & Oceans” package, which included a forward-looking Communication on the CFP’s future, a Marine Action Plan, an Energy Transition Initiative, and a review of the Common Market Organisation (CMO). The “Pact for Fisheries and Oceans” further promotes inclusive implementation, innovation, and transparency.
Complementing this, an EU report assesses the CFP’s effectiveness under climate change stressors. Using simulations and case studies, it finds that well-managed, low-mortality stocks exhibit greater resilience, although recovery may be delayed by environmental shifts. Fleet resilience varies due to economic constraints. The study also highlights the need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by promoting energy-efficient technologies and low-impact fishing practices. However, uptake is limited by funding, knowledge, and regulatory barriers. It recommends enhancing adaptive management, data collection, and incentives to support decarbonization—aligning the CFP with the EU’s broader climate goals.
