New declaration expected in 2027
The European Union and Mediterranean countries have confirmed their willingness to strengthen cooperation for the recovery of fish stocks, announcing the adoption of a new “MedFish4Ever” declaration expected in 2027. The agreement was reached during a high-level ministerial conference in Nicosia, organised by the European Commission and the Republic of Cyprus.
The new declaration will build on the agreement signed in 2017, which launched a ten-year plan to make fisheries and aquaculture in the Mediterranean more sustainable. Over these years, the results have been significant: about half of fish stocks show signs of recovery and, in some areas such as the Adriatic, species like hake have reached levels of sustainable exploitation for the first time. Regulated fishing areas and the use of more selective fishing gear have also helped reduce bycatch, while sustainable aquaculture has strengthened food security.
Despite progress, the situation remains critical. More than half of assessed stocks are still overfished, illegal fishing continues to be a major issue, and fleet overcapacity is undermining the sustainability of the sector. In addition, climate change is accelerating pressures, and small-scale fishing communities are facing economic difficulties, while young people are moving away from the profession.
To address these challenges, participating countries identified five priorities for the next decade: stronger governance, science-led recovery, a fair transition, climate resilience, and solidarity and partnership.
The conference therefore took stock of progress and provided political guidance for the new declaration, which will be adopted in 2027.