Overview
In 2017, one year following the entry into force of the PSMA, FAO launched a Global Capacity Development Programme under Article 21 of the PSMA, to support the implementation of the Agreement and complementary international instruments to combat IUU fishing.
The programme covers several aspects of capacity development, including international technical assistance, training, online support, and awareness raising, besides the development of materials.
Additionally, the programme also assists States to participate in technical and statutory meetings of the PSMA and complementary instruments, and supports their involvement in global information systems, including the FAO Global Record of Fishing Vessels, Refrigerated Transport Vessels and Supply Vessels (FAO Global Record) and the PSMA Global Information Exchange System (GIES).
The Global Capacity Development Programme is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 of the 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development, in particular SDG 14.4 and contributes to Indicator 14.6.1.
As of February 2025, this programme has funding in excess of USD 37 million, and includes resource partners such as the European Union, Germany, Iceland, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the United States of America. Information on individual projects is available at the FAO Global Capacity Development Portal.
FAO’s Global Capacity Development Programme to support countries to combat IUU fishing