At this year’s European Maritime Day, which took place in Cork (IE) from 22 to 23 May, the 11 Advisory Councils co-organized a special event to celebrate the 20 years of ACs driving stakeholder dialogue in EU fisheries and aquaculture. Titled “Celebrating Advisory Councils’ success in view of the Oceans Pact”, the event was held on the 22 May, from 15:45 to 17:00, at the Hotel Clayton, Pegasus Rooms 3+4 Ha. All members and interested parties were welcomed to join us for this occasion.
This milestone event highlighted how the ACs have helped shape sustainable fisheries and aquaculture governance across Europe, strengthening both socio-economic resilience and marine conservation. In view of the Oceans Pact, the workshop offers a timely opportunity to spotlight the power of participatory governance and invite fresh perspectives into the conversation.
The programme included a new video introduction to the Advisory Councils, an overview of ACs’ success stories which contributed to shaping EU fisheries policy, and a dynamic panel discussion with AC Chairs and Vice-Chairs representing both industry and other interest groups (OIGs), including: Alexandra Philippe – NWWAC OIG Chair; Yobana Bermúdez – Market AC Chair; Merel den Held – Pelagic AC OIG Vice-Chair; Antonis Petrou – Mediterranean AC Coordinator Focus Group EastMed.
Full report can be accessed here.