Forum on fisheries science in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea

The Forum on fisheries science in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea (Fish Forum) is the most important scientific gathering dedicated to fisheries and related issues in the region. It provides a unique platform for discussions of state-of-the-art fisheries science, as well as environmental, oceanographic and socioeconomic research.

Science is integrated into all steps of the fisheries decision-making process of the GFCM. The Fish Forum contributes by offering a unique space to discuss emerging challenges and share cutting-edge scientific analyses, helping to identify key priorities in terms of current topics and methods, as well as the data and information needed to give them strong foundations. It also serves to broaden the scientific interest in the GFCM, with the aim of continuously enhancing the quality of science at the basis of potential future management decisions.

International recognition of the Fish Forum’s role in science and policy for sustainable development

The importance of the Fish Forum has been recognized by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly as an example of an efficient interface between science and policymaking. Similarly, it gained recognition for implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), as well as for promoting strong cooperation with key international organizations.

Participation

The Fish Forum unites scientists, fishers, stakeholders, researchers, engineers, academics, practitioners, managers and decision-makers from international organizations, administrations, institutions and universities, non-governmental organizations and the private sector, in view of continued and accelerated progress towards ensuring sustainable fisheries in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. All participants have the opportunity to submit abstracts, take part in side events, open stands or simply attend the sessions and discussions.