EU Commission proposal for 2026 fishing quotas in the Baltic Sea.
We are pleased to note an increased caution in the quota proposals. The proposals take into account the risk assessments made in connection with the advice, and therefore reduced quotas are proposed in the Gulf and maintained quotas, i.e. no increases in the Baltic Sea. We see this as a sign that it is possible to influence the system, that the European Commission is listening.
Unfortunately, we have seen in the past how the Council of Ministers disregards the Commission’s cautious proposals, so it is important that we continue to work for caution when it comes to quota decisions.
We also need to continue working towards a long-term, sustainable approach to Baltic Sea fisheries. An approach where the ecosystem is protected and preserved in a time of increasing challenges from climate change, an approach where the value of the fish caught benefits the Baltic Sea region, where people once again get the chance to fish for food and where the security of supply is secured. For this reason, we want to see a total stop to large-scale feed fishing in the Baltic Sea.
The Baltic Sea Contract Foundation works to contribute to the development of the Baltic Sea environment towards a healthier sea. The work is done by many people around the Baltic Sea pledging to treat the sea well, which eventually has an impact. As we become more responsible, our ability to influence various actors and decision-makers to take major and important decisions and actions to create radical improvement in the key issues: Eutrophication-Large-scale Industrial Fishing-Hazardous Substances and Climate Change increases.