What changed between the draft committee report and the plenary report

This regulation is a vital tool within the EU’s international fisheries governance framework, designed to reinforce its mechanisms that ensure sustainable management of fish stocks. It serves as a cornerstone fostering international cooperation in sustainability, addressing non-compliance and safeguarding the long-term interests of EU fishers.

The aim of the rapporteur, among others, is to enhance the potential of this instrument. The rapporteur seeks to ensure that the EU is equipped with a robust and comprehensive framework to confront current and future challenges posed by all bilateral and multilateral partners, while also leveraging the role of compliance bodies within regional fisheries management organisations (RFMOs). This report therefore aims to strengthen the EU’s international fisheries governance strategy and secure its long-term objectives for sustainable and equitable fisheries management.

The rapporteur commends the Commission’s proposed changes to Article 3 on the identification of countries allowing non-sustainable fishing, as well as Article 6 establishing actions to be taken prior and subsequently to the adoption of measures, and has decided to introduce clearer and more comprehensive provisions to strengthen accountability.

Among others, the rapporteur highlights the importance of countering unreasonable demands from third countries, which could jeopardize the strategic interests of the EU and its fishers. Provisions aimed at preventing unjustified requests and deadlines safeguard the fairness of negotiations and protect the interests of EU fishers. Additionally, the rapporteur amendments address non-compliance by our partners, thereby upholding international sustainability efforts to protect our oceans, while also protecting the interests of EU fishers. Collectively, these changes establish a more comprehensive and strategic negotiating framework with our partners.

The rapporteur considers critical to strengthen the role of compliance bodies within RFMOs and deems that the Commission underutilises this tool of international fisheries governance. Before taking further action, the EU can better leverage international cooperation in sustainable fisheries management, by holding accountable, within these multilateral bodies, third countries that allow non-sustainable fishing. The proposed amendments aim to integrate more effectively RFMOs as a compliance tool within the EU’s international fisheries governance strategy, unlocking their full potential to combat non-sustainable fishing practices. The rapporteur underscores the importance of these legislative changes in driving tangible action by the Commission to enhance the effectiveness of RFMOs, improve environmental sustainability and ensure social justice for EU fishers.

The introduction of a clear definition of "best available scientific advice" addresses a critical gap in existing legislation. This amendment ensures greater consistency and clarity across all provisions, while preventing ambiguity in decision-making. By grounding fisheries management decisions in sound scientific principles, the EU strengthens both the legal and scientific rigor of conservation actions. This, is turn, improves the long-term effectiveness of the EU’s sustainability efforts.

In conclusion, the rapporteur believes that the proposed amendments have the potential to make this regulation a stronger, more comprehensive and future-proof instrument for the EU. It would further advance our efforts towards a proactive, resilient, and equitable approach to fisheries management, consolidating the EU’s position as a global leader in international sustainable fisheries governance.