Bilateral Engagement with the European Union
As two of the world’s largest harvesters and importers of seafood, the United States and the EU seek to assure consumers that their seafood is legally and sustainably harvested.
The long-term sustainability of the world’s fisheries can only be achieved through effective international cooperation. NOAA works to ensure that management of global fish stocks is science-based, that legitimate fishermen do not have to compete with those who break the rules, and that a steady supply of safe, legal, and sustainable seafood is available to meet consumer demand.
The European Union (EU) is a critical partner in this endeavor. The EU and the U.S. have committed to domestic actions to end overfishing and rebuild depleted stocks through a variety of innovative management approaches and will continue to strengthen regional partnerships to advance these goals for international fisheries. Below are some of our joint activities.
Combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing
Unsustainable fisheries practices can put the world's fisheries, our food security, and coastal communities at risk. In 2011, the United States and EU signing of a joint statement formally committing to work together to combat IUU fishing. Since then, our governments have worked through regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) to help other countries build capacity to manage their fisheries and enforce their laws.
Promoting Sustainable Management of Marine Resources
Both the United States and the European Union are committed to promoting the sustainable management of fisheries resources, both domestically and internationally. NOAA has provided input to the EU as they reform their Common Fisheries Policy.
Cooperation in Research Activities
NOAA and the EU Joint Research Centre (JRC) signed an Implementation Arrangement to guide cooperation in key research activities aligned with NOAA’s mission, including climate, weather, oceans, and coasts.
High Level Fisheries Consultation
NOAA, along with the Department of State and the U.S. Coast Guard, meets annually with the EU’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE). Issues discussed include IUU fishing, science, capacity management, and bycatch.