NWWAC urges the EU to ensure the Oceans Pact balances conservation, sustainable development, and fair fisheries governance
The North Western Waters Advisory Council (NWWAC) has issued a strong call for the European Commission to ensure that its Oceans Pact strikes a fair balance between marine conservation and the economic sustainability of the fishing industry.
In newly released advice to the EU, the advisory body highlights concerns over the lack of engagement with the fisheries sector and calls for greater transparency, socio-economic considerations, and practical implementation strategies.
Fishing Industry Calls for Fair Treatment in Oceans Pact
The Oceans Pact, introduced by the European Commission, aims to strengthen ocean governance through cooperation between stakeholders, member states, and EU institutions. However, NWWAC warns that the Pact must not prioritise conservation measures at the expense of responsible, sustainable fisheries.
In its recommendations, NWWAC emphasises that “cooperation and transparency are crucial in ensuring that fisheries management decisions are fair and take into account the needs of the industry.” The advisory body is urging the Commission to engage with the fisheries sector more actively, arguing that the current approach risks alienating key stakeholders whose livelihoods depend on the sea.
“The fishing industry has long played a vital role in marine stewardship,” the report states. “Any new commitments under the Oceans Pact must recognise and support the sector’s ongoing efforts to improve sustainability, rather than imposing top-down restrictions that may be unworkable.”
Concerns Over Lack of Clarity and Scientific Basis
One of the key criticisms raised by NWWAC is the lack of clarity on how the Oceans Pact will be implemented. The advisory body argues that the Commission has not provided sufficient details on how measures will be enforced, nor has it adequately assessed their potential economic impact.
“We need a clear and science-based approach,” the Council warns. “Without reliable scientific data and stakeholder consultation, we risk creating policies that harm fishing communities while failing to deliver meaningful conservation outcomes.”
The NWWAC is particularly concerned that the Oceans Pact could follow the same trajectory as past marine conservation policies, which have been criticised for their lack of practical feasibility. “The fishing sector has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability,” the report notes. “Yet, instead of building on this progress, the Oceans Pact appears to be pushing for further restrictions without adequate justification.”
Balancing Conservation with Economic Viability
While NWWAC acknowledges the importance of protecting marine biodiversity, it insists that conservation efforts must be balanced with the socio-economic realities of coastal communities. “The livelihoods of thousands of fishermen and their families depend on well-managed, sustainable fisheries,” the report states. “The Oceans Pact must ensure that economic sustainability is given equal consideration alongside environmental objectives.”
The Council also raises concerns over the increasing number of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), warning that excessive restrictions could displace fishing activity, leading to unintended ecological consequences. “MPAs must be designated based on sound scientific evidence, rather than arbitrary political targets,” NWWAC advises.
Call for Greater Stakeholder Engagement
A major point of contention is the lack of meaningful consultation with the fishing sector in the development of the Oceans Pact. The NWWAC insists that industry representatives must be included in all decision-making processes to ensure that policies are both effective and equitable.
“The EU must commit to genuine dialogue with the fishing sector,” the advisory body states. “Too often, policies are designed without input from those who are most affected by them. This needs to change.”
The NWWAC is now urging the European Commission to formally respond to its recommendations and to provide a clear roadmap for the Oceans Pact’s implementation.
Conclusion
The Oceans Pact represents a significant step in EU marine governance, but NWWAC warns that it must not come at the cost of a thriving fishing sector. The Council’s recommendations call for a more inclusive, science-based approach that balances conservation with economic realities.
With tensions rising over restrictive fisheries policies, the European Commission now faces growing pressure to address industry concerns and ensure that the Oceans Pact does not repeat past mistakes.