The European Commission has issued a Communication and a detailed “vade mecum” (guidebook) aimed at enhancing transparency and good governance in how Member States allocate fishing opportunities.
The move comes as the Commission seeks to ensure national quota distribution fully leverages the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) to promote sustainable practices and better support small-scale and coastal fishers.
New Guidance on CFP Articles 16 and 17
The Commission’s Communication is focused on the application of Articles 16 and 17 of the CFP Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013, which govern the allocation of fishing opportunities. These opportunities, defined as a quantified legal entitlement to fish, are deemed essential for the sustainable management of shared natural resources.
The accompanying vade mecum provides further details to assist Member States in implementing Article 17, which stipulates that when allocating national quotas (Total Allowable Catches – TACs and fishing effort limits), Member States must use transparent and objective criteria. These criteria must include those of an environmental, social, and economic nature.