The State of Mediterranean and Black Sea Fisheries 2018

Abstract

The State of Mediterranean and Black Sea Fisheries 2018 provides a comprehensive overview of regional and subregional trends in Mediterranean and Black Sea fisheries. Bringing together data and indicators submitted by contracting and cooperating non-contracting parties to the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) on stock status, national catches, fleet and socio-economic aspects, this report aims to provide objective, reliable and up-to-date information to a wide audience and support decision-making in fisheries. It begins with an analysis of the current composition of the fishing fleet, including information on fleet capacity, vessel types and age classes. Next comes a detailed breakdown of overall capture fishery production with comparisons of the latest figures to data from previous years, highlighting significant changes and trends. The report then looks at what this means for regional economies and for the livelihoods of the people who depend on the fisheries sector. As small-scale fisheries make up a large majority of Mediterranean and Black Sea fisheries, they receive special focus. The report also provides the most detailed assessment yet of the state of fishery resources in the region. It shows the current status of the stocks, including those most at risk from overfishing, and looks at related issues like discards and incidental catches of vulnerable species. The report also highlights the GFCM's strategic efforts to build long-term sustainability, as it works with its stakeholders to sustainably manage fisheries and improve coastal livelihoods across the region. It concludes with an overview of the important role fisheries have to play in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, maintaining healthy ecosystems and productive fisheries. The State of Mediterranean and Black Sea Fisheries is the flagship publication of the GFCM.