FAO sounds alarm on overfishing crisis, calls for urgent action
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has issued a stark warning in its latest State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture report, revealing that 35.5% of global fish stocks are now overexploited pushing marine ecosystems to dangerous limits.
The Mediterranean, Black Sea, and West African waters (particularly Morocco’s coastline) face acute pressure, with over 50% of fish stocks harvested unsustainably, often before reaching reproductive maturity.
While the crisis deepens with overfishing increasing by 1% annually the report highlights success stories.
85-90% of fish stocks in North America’s Pacific coast, Australia, and New Zealand are now sustainably managed through science-based quotas and strict enforcement.
Tuna fisheries show particular progress: 87% of major tuna stocks are responsibly harvested, with 99% of internationally traded tuna coming from monitored or certified sources.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. 600 million people worldwide rely on fisheries for food and livelihoods a lifeline threatened by collapsing stocks.
FAO Fisheries Director Manuel Barange emphasizes that West Africa urgently needs strengthened management to protect biodiversity and coastal communities.
The report underscores a dual imperative: replicate proven sustainable models globally while accelerating innovation in aquaculture, which now provides 49% of all fish for human consumption
