Fisheries

The FAO Committee on Fisheries is the only global inter-governmental forum where major international fisheries and aquaculture problems and issues are examined, and recommendations addressed to governments, regional fishery bodies, NGOs, fishworkers, FAO and the international community, periodically on a world-wide basis. Read more on our participation in the COFI 36.
The Sub-Committee on Fisheries Management is a space to provide essential technical and policy guidance on fisheries governance and management, in which the IPC organizations participate as observers. Read more on our participation in the 1st Sub-Committee on Fisheries Management

The organisations of the IPC Fisheries Working Group are part of the Advisory Group of the SFF-GSF (AG), along with IFAD and OHCHR. The role of the AG is to raise awareness on the SSF Guidelines and promote a human rights-based approach, give inputs on the implementation of the Guidelines at the national level, as well defining the criteria for its monitoring through a participatory process.

The IPC Fisheries Working Group has actively contributed to organizing the SSF Summit in both 2022 and 2024. This global platform brings together small-scale fisheries movements around the world to address governance and development challenges while strengthening the implementation of the SSF Guidelines. Designed by and for fisherfolk, the SSF Summit is an inclusive, non-technical space that facilitates engagement with governments and other key actors, serving as a crucial preparatory moment ahead of the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI). It provides a unique opportunity for knowledge-sharing and coordinated action across regions. Our role is to shape the agenda through a consultative and participatory process with both IPC and non-IPC members, ensuring a politically relevant discussion and a free, safe space for small-scale fishers and Indigenous Peoples to make their voices heard.