AU-IBAR at COFI 36: Strengthening Fisheries and Aquaculture Governance

The ongoing 36th Session of the Committee on Fisheries (COFI), taking place from 8th to 12th July 2024, marks a pivotal event in global fisheries governance. Held in a hybrid modality, the session aims to address critical issues impacting the sustainability and management of fisheries and aquaculture worldwide. Under the auspices of the FishGov2 Projects, funded by the European Union, AU-IBAR and AUDA-NEPED are participating at this key event being held in Rome, Italy at the FAO Headquarters.

The 36th Session of the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI 36) is set to convene in July 2024. Established in 1965, the Committee is a global forum for examining major international fisheries and aquaculture problems and recommending solutions. It reviews FAO's programs and conducts periodic reviews of international problems, as well as specific matters referred to it by the Council or FAO Director-General.

Key Agenda Items Include
1. State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture: A comprehensive review of global fisheries and aquaculture practices, focusing on progress in implementing the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.
2. High-Level Special Event: Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries, emphasizing their role in food security and poverty eradication.
3. Sub-Committee Reports: Endorsement of decisions and recommendations from various COFI sub-committees, including Aquaculture, Fish Trade, and Fisheries Management.
4. Combatting IUU Fishing: Discussions on combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated fishing practices, crucial for sustainable resource management.
5. Climate Change and Biodiversity: Exploration of the impact of climate change on fisheries, aquaculture, and marine biodiversity frameworks.
6. Multi-year Programme of Work: Deliberations on the future strategic direction of COFI through its Multi-year Programme of Work, outlining priorities and initiatives.

Expected Outcomes
The session aims to foster international cooperation, policy alignment, and actionable outcomes to tackle emerging challenges in fisheries and aquaculture. Delegates will engage in substantive discussions, aiming to shape global policies that promote sustainable development and resilience in the face of environmental and socio-economic changes.
As delegates convene, the Committee on Fisheries reaffirms its commitment to advancing sustainable practices, ensuring equitable access to aquatic resources, and promoting resilience in the face of evolving global challenges.

Key side meetings for AU-IBAR
While in COFI36, AU-IBAR shall hold several side meetings: notably:
1. Attendance at the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Policy Framework and Reform Strategy (PFRS) for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa

2. The 3rd Meeting of the Platform of Africa’s Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in Fisheries and Aquaculture on July 11, 2024. 

3. AUDA-NEPAD shall convene a consultative dialogue on Africa’s Aquatic Food Systems Priorities for the CAADP Post-Malabo Agenda

Conclusion
With its diverse agenda and participation from stakeholders worldwide, the 36th Session of COFI stands poised to set new benchmarks in global fisheries governance, reflecting the collective commitment towards a sustainable and inclusive future for fisheries and aquaculture sectors globally.

More Information: https://www.fao.org/cofi/en