Advancing cross-border cooperation for responsible fisheries management in Southeast Asia

Context

Since 1960, global fish consumption has doubled to 20 kilogrammes per person annually, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2022. This surge in demand intensifies fishing activities, which reduce marine populations, disrupt essential ecosystem functions, and weaken the oceans’ ability to act as global carbon sinks. At the same time, overfishing threatens the long-term survival of marine fisheries worldwide.

This global challenge has a particularly significant impact in Southeast Asia, where fisheries play a vital economic and ecological role. In this region, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) – a regional alliance of ten Southeast Asian countries – provides around a quarter of the world's fish catch and is often called a 'global fish basket'. However, illegal fishing and uncoordinated practices risk undermining this resource base.

To address these challenges, enhanced coordination among the ten ASEAN Member States (AMS) is important for tackling illegal fishing. Sharing best practices for responsible small-scale fisheries will further support the long-term sustainability of marine resources in the region.

Objective

ASEAN Member States effectively collaborate across borders to manage fishery resources responsibly in Southeast Asia, protecting ocean biodiversity, preserving marine ecosystems, and supporting local livelihoods.

Approach

The project aims to enhance fisheries management and foster collaboration among AMS to combat illegal fishing. Important measures include:

• Examining how monitoring systems for illegal fishing can work together more effectively. This involves providing guidance to relevant ASEAN fisheries groups on coordinating a plan to use these systems and training those who will operate them.
• Offering expert advice on revising or developing new policy instruments that promote responsible fisheries practices and prevent illegal fishing activities.
• Assisting coastal municipalities in assessing their needs analysis for monitoring coastal waters. This includes recommending digital monitoring instruments, training relevant users, and working with local fishers in two municipalities to coordinate agreements that support fair and responsible small-scale fishing, with consideration for gender inclusivity.

Last update: December 2024