Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002840/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Aldo Patriciello (PfE)
Traditional swordfish fishing has, since time immemorial, been a key asset for many coastal communities in the Mediterranean and is even more important to their Italian counterparts, as it is part and parcel both of their local identity and their cultural and economic heritage. However, this sector is in jeopardy owing to mounting regulatory restrictions, falling fish stocks, competition from industrial fisheries and the absence of targeted European policies.
Small-scale fishers – whose sustainable techniques have been handed down from generation to generation – are operating in increasingly difficult circumstances which threaten their income and the survival of a traditional profession of great cultural significance.
In the light of the above:
- 1.Will the Commission recognise traditional swordfish fishing as being distinct from industrial fishing practices and protect the former by adopting specific quota management criteria?
- 2.Is the Commission planning to enact economic and technical support measures to protect the livelihoods of small-scale fishers?
- 3.Would it be willing to support local pilot projects and initiatives promoting traditional fishing as an example of a sustainable blue economy?
Submitted: 11.7.2025