Panel Discussion with Fisher Representatives  

On the third day of the workshop, fishers' representatives from Brazil, Cabo Verde, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, and Tunisia, formed a panel to discuss the challenges facing the fisheries sector and explore potential solutions. Participants identified a range of problems in their respective countries, such as the gap between fishers' expectations, government support, and environmental concerns. 

The panel highlighted specific problems, including the lack of reliable statistics and the challenges in issuing licenses. Proposals to harmonize inland and marine fisheries management were discussed, along with concerns about the impact of green energy construction, issues with intermediaries taking a significant share of fishers' efforts and revenues, and certification problems limiting market access. 

The panel argued that rather than seeing fishers as 'dependents', the government should recognize fishing as a profession that deserves support for economic inclusion and productive development.  They emphasized the need for tailored social protection, sustainable practices, and global collaboration, proposing an approach that considers risks, context, and long-term sustainability. The panel called for a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics in various fisheries contexts and targeted solutions to safeguard fishers' livelihoods. 

Solutions proposed by fisher representatives focused on integration and reducing bureaucracy. Key points included recognizing inequalities and barriers to access social protection programmes as well as addressing issues beyond subsidies, and incorporating alternative livelihoods. 

The panel underscored the importance of organizational structures, stressing the need for legal recognition and organization of the sector. They proposed the formation of inter-institutional working groups that would bring together all institutions involved in fisheries, including fisheries, aquaculture, and social development institutions.