MEPs seek revision of the Baltic Sea multiannual plan, urging science‑based TACs, precautionary measures and support for fishermen.
With 15 votes in favour, six against and six abstentions, the Fisheries Committee adopted a report drafted by Isabella Lövin (Greens/EFA), calling on the Commission and the Council to use all legal instruments at their disposal to prevent further decline of Baltic Sea fish stocks.
MEPs also want the Commission and the Council to assess how quotas are distributed among fleet segments, with the aim of understanding a possible causal link between pressure on resources and the allocation of quotas by member states. They further call for increased social and financial support and compensation for affected communities and fishermen.
Assessment and Possible Revision of the Regulation
MEPs argue that the EU’s multiannual plan (MAP) for Baltic Sea fisheries has not delivered on its objectives, as it has failed to restore harvested species above levels capable of producing maximum sustainable yield (MSY).
They therefore urge the Commission to start an evaluation of the Baltic Sea MAP Regulation with a view to a possible revision. According to the Fisheries Committee, any revised framework should be simple, science‑based and easy for the sector to comply with.
MEPs also say a new plan should include automatic measures that are triggered when stocks fall below reference points set in accordance with the precautionary approach.
Scientific Advice and Total Allowable Catches
Given the vulnerability of the Baltic Sea ecosystem, socio‑economic factors, slow recovery rates of fish stocks and scientific uncertainty, MEPs say total allowable catches (TACs) should take into account the need to prevent the disappearance of fish populations.
They also call on member states and the Commission to strengthen the implementation of the landing obligation in the Baltic Sea.
MEPs want advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) on precautionary buffers to be considered in the rebuilding of Baltic Sea fish stocks, including advice on TAC ranges above MSY. They also say a comprehensive genetic population mapping of commercially exploited species, such as herring and sprat, is needed.
Predators, Ordnance and External Pressures
MEPs call for a scientifically founded approach to managing natural predators, including local and targeted measures for great cormorants and grey seals, while ensuring adequate monitoring and funding. They also insist that the Commission should be asked to put forward a proposal for an EU‑wide management plan for Baltic Sea fisheries and aquaculture.
The committee further urges the Commission and member states to launch a coordinated, long‑term and adequately funded EU programme to locate, neutralise and remove conventional and chemical weapons, including unexploded ordnance from the Second World War, which contaminate the marine environment and threaten human health.
MEPs note that Baltic Sea management is also hindered by quotas decided unilaterally by Russia, which they say exceed MSY levels and do not follow scientific advice. They call on the Commission and the Council to consider action to pressure Russia to align its quotas with scientific recommendations.
They also condemn the growing presence of the Russian shadow fleet in Baltic waters, which they say operates with minimal regard for safety, environmental and regulatory standards, putting the environment at risk of oil spills. MEPs call on the Commission to assess how to combat the shadow fleet and to ensure full enforcement of EU sanctions against Russia.
Background and Next Steps
The ecological situation in the Baltic Sea has deteriorated in recent decades and faces challenges including warming waters, decreasing salinity, eutrophication from agriculture and wastewater, invasive species and increased use of the sea for activities such as transport, fishing and offshore wind development.
These pressures affect living and spawning areas of fish and negatively impact the biomass of several commercial stocks, including cod.
The report adopted by the Fisheries Committee is scheduled to be voted on by the full European Parliament during the May plenary session.
