Europeche and ETF urge new policies to ensure a sustainable fishing sector, attract new talent, and secure fishers’ futures.
Europeche and the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) have called for urgent action to secure the future of Europe’s fishing industry.
At the “Fishers of the Future” conference, Cor Blonk, Chair of the EU Social Dialogue Committee for Sea Fisheries, highlighted the essential role fishers play in Europe’s food security and the socio-economic stability of coastal communities.
Speaking at the conference, which examined the future of fishers in society up to 2050, Blonk stressed the need for robust policies to ensure the fishing industry can continue to provide quality, safe jobs. He called for coordinated action to address economic, environmental, and regulatory challenges that threaten the industry’s sustainability and appeal to younger generations.
“The future of fishers starts today,” Blonk said. “Sustainability must go beyond environmental concerns to include the welfare and profitability of fishers themselves. Fishers play a vital role in securing healthy, nutritious food, and their contributions deserve recognition and appreciation.”
The conference was opened by Kostas Kadis, the new EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, who emphasised the sector’s integral role in delivering healthy food to European citizens. Kadis highlighted that the industry faces significant challenges, including labour shortages, an ageing workforce, and a persistent gender gap. He called for open dialogue between fishers and policymakers to develop strategies that ensure the industry’s competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability.
Blonk echoed these concerns, noting that rising operational costs, competition from unsustainable imports, and excessive bureaucracy are further compounding the difficulties faced by fishers. He pointed out that fleet modernisation offers a pathway forward, but restrictive EU regulations, including outdated capacity definitions, are slowing progress by preventing necessary upgrades for greener technologies and better crew accommodations.
Blonk praised the industry’s environmental achievements, such as a 52% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, but he warned that much work remains to be done. Safety remains a critical concern, with inconsistent training standards across Member States jeopardising the well-being of crews. Blonk also called for regulatory simplifications to enable fishers to compete effectively in a global market.
“Times are challenging, but we remain optimistic. What we need is a policy framework that allows fishers and vessel owners to do what they do best: deliver healthy seafood to our tables,” he said. “We cannot stop the future, but we can influence it—together.”
Europeche and ETF presented several recommendations to support the sector, including revising fleet renewal rules, establishing consistent safety standards, investing in workforce development, and reducing regulatory burdens. The social dimension of fisheries policies must also be prioritised, ensuring fair working conditions and equitable opportunities for all.
The event closed with a shared commitment to collaboration between stakeholders, policymakers, and the fishing industry. The renewed focus on the social dimension of the Common Fisheries Policy offers hope for a more balanced and inclusive approach to securing a sustainable and resilient future for Europe’s fishers.
Source: Press Release