Global Forum on Food Security and Nutrition (FSN Forum)

FAO Publications

Here is a selection of titles proposed by FAO Publications for forum participants who would like to read more on small-scale fisheries.

Voluntary Guidelines for securing sustainable small-scale fisheries in the context of food security and poverty eradication

These guidelines are intended to support the visibility, recognition and enhancement of the already important role of small-scale fisheries and to contribute to global and national efforts towards the eradication of hunger and poverty.



Strengthening, empowering and sustaining small-scale aquaculture farmers’ associations

This paper presents case studies from five Asian countries, with the aim of demonstrating that that the livelihoods of small-scale farmers and hatchery operators can be improved by being associated. This is especially so when the association is strong in its democratically operated procedures and financial transparency.



Securing sustainable small-scale fisheries: Sharing good practices from around the world

This document includes eight studies showcasing good practices in support of sustainable small-scale fisheries, including restoring lake fisheries and rural livelihoods through rights-based inclusive governance in Nepal, and social responsibility in Senegal.

Towards the implementation of the SSF guidelines in West and Central Africa

This paper reports on the outputs of the consultation, including increased understanding of the status of small-scale fisheries in the region, and the sharing of experiences on initiatives relevant to small-scale fisheries governance and development.

Towards gender-equitable small-scale fisheries governance and development: A handbook

This manual provides practical guidance on how to achieve gender-equitable small-scale fisheries in the context of the implementation of the SSF Guidelines.

Guidelines for micro-finance and credit services in support of small-scale fisheries in Asia

These guidelines aim to increase awareness about the needs of small-scale fishers for more sustainable and inclusive access to finance, and to guide policy- and decision makers to encourage investment in the industry.

Global Conference on tenure and user rights in fisheries 2018: Achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, Yeosu, Republic Of Korea, 10–14 September 2018

Among the issues discussed during the conference were a rights-based approach to fisheries governance, the foundation of small-scale fishing, the legal details of tenure and user rights, and the links between the SDGs and tenure and user rights.

Further reading

Code of Conduct for responsible fisheries

The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2018

Report of the Expert Workshop on guidelines for micro-finance, credit and insurance for small-scale fisheries in Asia, Bangkok, Thailand, 7−9 May 2019

Report of the thirty-third session of the Committee on Fisheries, Rome, 9−13 July 2018

Guidelines for increasing access of small-scale fisheries to insurance services In Asia: A handbook for insurance and fisheries stakeholders

The State of Mediterranean and Black Sea fisheries 2018

The International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture 2022

Enhancing the contribution of small-scale fisheries to food security and sustainable livelihoods