Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture depend on effective compliance and enforcement systems to ensure that adopted measures are effectively implemented. Contracting parties and cooperating non-contracting parties (CPCs) regularly assess the implementation of GFCM recommendations and resolutions through an annual reporting process and a structured compliance mechanism. Robust monitoring, control and surveillance systems, supported by the effective transposition of GFCM measures into national legislation, help ensure that all stakeholders comply with agreed rules and contribute to the sustainable use of marine living resources.
RPOA-IUU
Preventing, deterring and eliminating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing to ensure a level playing field and protect marine resources.
From decision-making to entry into force, implementation and follow-up actions
Compliance assessment
Through the compliance assessment mechanism, the Compliance Committee annually reviews the implementation of GFCM decisions and categorizes cases of non-compliance by CPCs.
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Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS)
Cross-cutting themes
Latest news
News
From healthy seas to healthy foods: a journey across aquatic food systems
10/10/2026
This October, several events will highlight the importance of aquatic foods and the ecosystems that sustain them. From World Food Day and the Global...
New Adriatic Sea fisheries unit inaugurated in Split to strengthen science-based fisheries management
04/09/2026
The Adriatic Sea Technical Unit of the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United...
A community response to ghost gear
28/06/2026
Standing behind small microscopes on Belyounech beach, in Fnideq, northern Morocco, children spent World Oceans Day learning about the wonders of...
A decade on: How Port State Measures are locking IUU catches out of markets
05/06/2026
Ten years ago, the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing reached a major milestone with the entry into force of the FAO...