The EU’s fisheries advisory councils have urged for better stakeholder engagement in STECF processes. Photo: Sean McConville
In a detailed proposal addressed to Charlina Vitcheva, Director-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, seven regional Advisory Councils (ACs) have called for enhanced stakeholder engagement in the Scientific, Technical, and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF) processes.
The proposal, submitted on 7th February 2025, outlines recommendations designed to maximise the contribution of those with practical expertise in fisheries management.
The signatories—representing the North Western Waters AC (NWWAC), Pelagic AC (PelAC), North Sea AC (NSAC), South Western Waters AC (SWWAC), Long Distance AC (LDAC), Outermost Regions AC (CCRUP), and Mediterranean AC (MEDAC)—emphasised the need to improve the participation of fishers and other stakeholders in the development of scientific advice that guides EU fisheries policies.
“AC members bring crucial, ground-level knowledge to the table, which is often missing from purely scientific discussions. Our presence ensures that real-world perspectives are considered in policy development,” stated Emiel Brouckaert, Chair of NWWAC. However, Brouckaert noted that current arrangements allow only one or two AC representatives to participate in Expert Working Groups (EWGs), which limits the breadth of stakeholder input.
Recommendations for Better Engagement
The letter suggests several improvements to STECF operations:
1/. Expanded Representation:
ACs recommend that DG MARE ask EWG Chairs to increase the number of stakeholder representatives in working groups. “With only one or two people attending, it’s difficult to represent the full range of concerns and insights from diverse stakeholders,” Brouckaert explained.
2/. Early Notifications:
Timely communication is essential to ensure effective participation. “Many of our members require time to consult internally and prepare for discussions. The current system does not give us enough notice,” noted Antonio Marzoa Notlevsen, Chair of MEDAC.
3/. Pre-Meeting Collaboration:
The proposal calls for targeted meetings before EWGs to align on priorities and ensure AC members can provide relevant data and expertise. According to the letter, this would “significantly enhance the relevance and quality of stakeholder input.”
4/. Ongoing Dialogue:
The ACs propose holding regular sessions during their working group meetings to foster continuous dialogue with STECF. “These sessions would allow STECF members to present findings, gather feedback, and discuss upcoming challenges,” said Kenn Skau Fischer, Chair of NSAC.
5/. Website Transparency and Accessibility:
The STECF website has become less accessible in recent updates, with many previous reports missing. The ACs urged DG MARE to restore these reports and improve the site’s usability. Additionally, they suggested introducing an email notification system to keep stakeholders informed of key developments and meetings.
Examples of Collaboration
The letter also highlighted positive examples of stakeholder engagement in recent STECF initiatives:
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EWG 24-09 on Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems:
The NWWAC and SWWAC reported regular communication with DG MARE and the working group’s Chair. Meetings held in October 2024 with both ACs provided members the opportunity to ask detailed questions and gain insights into the STECF’s approach. -
LDAC Participation in the Annual Economic Report:
LDAC members praised the involvement of their representatives in the EWG responsible for the EU fishing fleet’s Annual Economic Report. “The EWG Chair attended several LDAC plenary meetings, presenting outcomes and gathering feedback. This level of cooperation should serve as a model for future engagement,” said Iván Lopez, Chair of LDAC. -
Outermost Regions AC:
The CCRUP highlighted the need for better inclusion in relevant discussions, particularly those affecting remote regions. “Although reports are available in French and Portuguese, it is important to include Spanish translations as well, considering that the Canary Islands are part of the EU,” noted Ruben Farias, Chair of CCRUP.
Calls for Better Resourcing
The ACs also stressed the need to allocate more resources to STECF and EWG Chairs. They suggested that additional working days be provided to allow for better planning and engagement with stakeholders. “Effective collaboration requires time and preparation, which cannot be achieved without the necessary support,” stated Sergio López, Chair of SWWAC.
Concluding the proposal, the Advisory Councils expressed their willingness to work with DG MARE and STECF to explore practical ways of implementing the recommendations. “We are eager to continue providing knowledge and experience that enhances EU fisheries management,” the letter emphasised.