Europêche urges EU Oceans Pact to prioritise fisheries, supporting food sovereignty, sustainable practices, and coastal livelihoods
In a public hearing organised by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Tim Heddema, Vice-President of Europêche, highlighted the critical role fisheries play in achieving the EU’s ocean-related objectives.
Speaking on behalf of the sector, Heddema emphasised its contributions to food sovereignty, healthy diets, coastal community livelihoods, and marine ecosystem stewardship. He urged the EU to prioritise and enhance these roles in the forthcoming European Oceans Pact, which will be presented at the 3rd UN Ocean Conference in June 2025.
Key Objectives of the European Oceans Pact
The European Oceans Pact is a key political initiative aimed at fostering a holistic approach to ocean governance. Its objectives include maintaining healthy, resilient oceans, promoting a sustainable and competitive blue economy, and advancing marine research, innovation, and investment.
Sustainability and Innovation in the Fisheries Sector
Heddema underlined the EU fishing fleet’s leadership in sustainability, noting its 52% reduction in emissions and adoption of cleaner technologies. He stressed the importance of closing the production gap as Europe currently imports 70% of its seafood. He also called for imported seafood to meet the same sustainability standards as EU products to ensure a fair playing field.
Addressing Coastal and Community Challenges
The hearing also addressed the socio-economic challenges facing coastal communities. Heddema pointed to rising energy costs, Brexit, and regulatory burdens as factors threatening the viability of fishing as a career. He advocated for adaptation policies that reduce bureaucracy, enhance social cohesion, and attract new generations to the sector.
Maritime Spatial Planning and Ocean Health
Maritime spatial planning was another priority, with Europêche stressing the importance of balanced and inclusive decision-making to ensure the coexistence of fisheries with other maritime industries. Protecting traditional fishing grounds and mitigating the socio-economic and ecological impacts of industrial developments, such as offshore wind farms, were highlighted as essential.
Strengthening Ocean Governance and Financial Support
Heddema urged the EU to focus on science-based management of ocean health, citing the fisheries sector’s role in marine data collection. Initiatives like fishing-for-litter schemes were praised for their contribution to clean oceans and the circular economy. He also called for global action on marine pollution, advocating for a comprehensive plastics treaty.
In the area of governance, Heddema highlighted the need for sustainable fishing agreements with third countries, stronger maritime security, and intensified efforts to combat illegal fishing. Adequate financial support, he noted, is essential for achieving these goals, criticising recent cuts to the European Maritime, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).
Outlook
Heddema concluded by urging the EU to recognise the fisheries sector as a cornerstone of its Oceans Pact. “This sector has sustainably harnessed our seas for centuries, supports coastal communities, and provides healthy, nutritious food to citizens across Europe.”
The EESC hearing will contribute to its exploratory opinion on Civil Society’s Vision for a European Oceans Pact.
Source: Press Release