Report | November 12, 2025

Don’t Sink the Common Fisheries Policy- Fulfil its potential

Don't sink the CFP

 As the European Commission prepares its evaluation of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), environmental NGOs across Europe and beyond urge EU and national policymakers to help build a sustainable and resilient fishing sector by upholding regulatory stability and prioritising the effective implementation of existing law. Efforts should focus on developing and integrating impactful solutions within the current EU framework.

Strengthening the implementation of the CFP offers immediate socio-economic and regulatory benefits. It provides stability and predictability for fishers and coastal communities, prevents years of legislative uncertainty, and allows the EU to deliver faster on sustainability goals. Consistent enforcement can drive economic resilience in fisheries while restoring ocean health without the delays and risks associated with a full reform process.

 In practice, this means less institutional upheaval, bureaucracy, and uncertainty – and a greater emphasis on delivering tangible results on the ground. The challenge is to close the gap between the CFP commitments and reality, not to redesign it.