By fishers, for fishers: co-management of marine and freshwaters ecosystems and resources

Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to all of the following outcomes:Measurable improvements in the status of critical marine and/or freshwaters habitats (including blue carbon sequestration capacities) and of species through active and passive conservation and restoration measures;Increased sustainability of fishing practices and tools and enhanced implementation of eco-system-based approaches as outlined in the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP);Measurable socio-economic benefits for local communities, skill development and job creation;Enhanced governance in the co-management of ecosystems and resources at local and basin level and overall strengthened Mission governance framework;Improved cross-border coordination in fish movement data collection and exchange. Scope:The Communication of the Commission on “A vision for agriculture and food sectors - Shaping together an attractive EU farming and food sector for future generations”[1] highlights the strategic importance of fisheries for the Union and the role fishers play, as custodians of nature, for the protection and resilience of our ocean, waters, and biodiversity. Equally important are the objectives and actions set out in the European Ocean Pact[2] and the EU Action Plan: Protecting and restoring marine ecosystems for sustainable and resilient fisheries[3].Proposals under this topic are expected to show how activities and results will contribute to achieve both Mission objective 1 – Protect and restore marine and freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity, and Mission objective 3 – Sustainable, carbon-neutral and circular blue economy.The goal is to further develop adaptive co-management approaches to reconcile fisheries with the environmental sustainability, ensuring the long-term viability of both marine and/or freshwater ecosystems and local livelihoods. This approach promotes a harmonious relationship between fishers and coastal communities, fostering a more sustainable and inclusive mana