The End of Mediterranean Artisanal Fishermen

This research has been conducted by the journalists in the Mediterranean countries that are part of the European Union. They analysed how the fishing legislation of the European Union, characterised by the application of a common policy, is not adapted to the needs of each territory. The application of these laws also led to the decrease in the local wooden boats fleet of each region which represented a much more sustainable way of fishing.

To reduce overfishing and make it more sustainable, the policy that has been applied since the 1990s in the Mediterranean is the destruction of vessels in exchange for an economic compensation. In Greece alone, more than 13,000 vessels have been destroyed since this policy was adopted.  The loss of these vessels has led to the destruction of a professional sector, with other related crafts, such as boat builders. The investigation also focused on the cultural and identity loss caused by the application of these European measures leading to the destruction of the vessels.    

Increased bureaucracy and the need for permits from European countries, as opposed to the lack of regulations in third countries, hinders the continuity of the profession. In a scenario of overfishing and a strong fishing industry, the artisanal sector receives fewer resources and a shortage of aid. The new generations do not see a future in their careers as fishermen, leaving an ageing sector with a lack of generational relief.    

This story includes testimonies from fishermen from all the countries where the research was carried out. Some of them are still active, while others have stopped their activity applying for financial compensation from the European Union. Most of the interviewees are middle-aged men, but the investigation also includes young people who are struggling to continue in the profession. In addition, there are the views of organisations that promote and protect traditional boats, as well as experts in the field and wooden boat builders. The research also features testimonies from members of the EU Fisheries Commission and fishermen's rights activists.

Photo by Bruna Cases.