
On 14 January 2025, the European Commission unveiled the study ‘Fishers of the Future’, which envisions potential paths for the European Union (EU) fishing sector towards 2050. The study outlines four scenarios derived from two key axes: the extent of climate and biodiversity changes in marine ecosystems and consumer demand within market dynamics. Each scenario incorporates complex factors such as geopolitical trends, coastal activities, technological advances, operational costs, and workforce challenges. Moreover, detailed profiles for small-scale and large-scale fishers highlight how these scenarios might shape their activities. The study’s four scenarios are: Thriving Responsibly (successful adaptation with high demand for EU fish), Chasing Declining Stocks (dwindling stocks amid high demand), Contested Markets (moderate climate change with low demand), and Scarcity and Survival (scarce stocks and low demand). The complete study is now available online.
This week’s map highlights Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs) located across Europe, supported by the European Maritime, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). EMFAF prioritises Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) by empowering local partnerships that include fisheries sector representatives and other stakeholders in the blue economy. There are over 300 FLAGs in Europe. Each one develops a tailored strategy to address local economic, social, or environmental challenges. FLAGs fund initiatives aligned with their development strategies, contributing to the resilience and sustainability of their coastal communities [1]. Click on the countries to discover CLDD factsheets and learn more about FLAG activities by country until 2027.
The ‘Fishers of the Future’ study is part of the Pact for Fisheries and Oceans, introduced in February 2023. This initiative fosters a shared vision for the fisheries and aquaculture sector, focusing on sustainable practices and strengthening the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). By promoting dialogue between fisheries managers and stakeholders, the Pact aims to ensure the sector’s social and environmental resilience [2]. This collaborative effort seeks to clarify objectives, align strategies, and adapt policies to address emerging challenges.
Wish to learn more?
- Dive into the ‘Fishers for Future’ study to uncover in-depth analyses and forward-looking scenarios for the EU fishing sector through 2050;
- Watch Euronews’ OCEAN series latest video, ‘Hooked on Salmon: EU-backed Efforts to Protect Sweden’s Threatened Wild Species’, and explore how the EU is helping to safeguard biodiversity;
- Interested in attending events and dialogues about the ocean? Save the date for the European Ocean Days that will take place on 3-7 March 2025 in Brussels and online. The European Ocean Days is a unique opportunity for blue communities to exchange ideas, tackle challenges, and explore solutions for interconnected ocean issues. Register now!
- Interested in creating your own map on fisheries with the European Atlas of the Seas? The new ‘My Locations’ feature is here to help! With interactive guidance now available in 24 languages in the Atlas’ menu under ‘Do you need help?’, creating your own map has never been easier. Explore the Atlas now!
The data in the map are provided by the European Commission.
[1] https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/funding/emfaf_en