International Collective in Support of Fishworkers (ICSF) FAO Sub-Committee on Fisheries Management: First Session
Agenda Item 4
Mainstreaming Biodiversity in Fisheries Management in the Context of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
Statement
ICSF welcome this agenda item. Considering the contributions made by SSF to global food security and nutrition, livelihood protection and their reliance on marine, coastal and inland biodiversity for survival and sustenance, we stand here emphasizing the critical concerns of the small-scale and artisanal fishers on mainstreaming biodiversity in fisheries management. Conservation of aquatic ecosystems (Marine and Inland) are vital for the sustainability of SSF. We deeply appreciate the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework that is drafted within the framework of a human rights-based approach ensuring effective and meaningful participation of Indigenous peoples, local communities, women and youth in the conservation of biodiversity, its sustainable use and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits.
In relation to fulfilment of targets 1-3- spatial planning, restoration and protection of aquatic species, we call for the recognition and consideration of formal and informal tenure and governance practices. It has to be guaranteed that parties take into account the existing guidelines on tenure and the SSF Guidelines and ensure that the small-scale fishers and fishworkers are made an integral part of decision-making and management processes taking into account the tenets of United Nations Declaration on the. Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and ILO 169. Within the implementation of Target 3, we emphasise that while considering conservation outcomes, an ecosystem-based approach be ensured taking into consideration the cultural, social and economic value of these ecosystems to the communities. The local and traditional knowledge towards conservation, management and sustainable use of resources be respected and be taken into consideration while planning and implementing area-based management measures.
Other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs) or traditional territories be acknowledged for their contribution to sustainable management of resources and participatory approaches be adopted in the spatial management practices- for both inland and marine ecosystems.
Participatory and community-based marine and inland fishery management practices be deployed towards sustainable management of fisheries as spelt in Target 10. Appropriate legislative reforms be made to offer spaces of participation for communities in this process. Community level and institutional level capacity building be enhanced to ensure effective and meaningful participation. Legislations be framed at the national and subnational level to ensure that the social, economic and environmental benefits of sustainable use and management of fishery resources are fairly and equitably shared with the local communities as envisaged in Target 9.
In addition to incorporating target 23 on gender equality and gender responsive approach, we also call for integrating the Gender Plan of Action as adopted by COP15 along with the KM-GBF. This will safeguard the gender concerns of SSF and make the mainstreaming of biodiversity within the fisheries management an equitable and just endeavour. We also urge that the monitoring framework of the GBF be thoroughly used to monitor the fisheries management practices adopted and detailed through the NBSAPs to ensure HRBA.
In the pursuit of the Global Biodiversity Framework’s goals within fisheries management, we must recognize and address the unique challenges faced by small-scale fisheries. This entails adopting policies and management strategies that promote sustainable practices, enhance resilience, and empower local communities. It is crucial to integrate traditional knowledge, engage stakeholders, and ensure the inclusion of small-scale fisheries in decision-making processes at local, national, and international levels. By fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building, we can create a more inclusive and effective framework that safeguards both biodiversity and the livelihoods of those who depend on small-scale fisheries.
As we strive to address the pressing challenges facing our environment, it is imperative that we recognize and integrate the needs of small-scale fisheries into the broader framework of global biodiversity conservation.
The statement is available in French and Spanish
