Today, 15 May 2024, we commemorate the adoption of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) Regulation, a milestone that marked the beginning of a new era in the sustainable management of marine resources in Europe. In 2014, the European Commission decided to create a European Executive Agency to manage financial resources for fisheries and the blue economy in a more efficient and transparent way.

The EMFF has been a major player in promoting fisheries science and creating innovative solutions to address the socio-economic and environmental challenges faced by fishing and coastal communities since its foundation. Throughout these ten years, the Fund has supported a variety of initiatives, including research on the conservation of marine species and the development of clean technologies for the fishing industry, which has contributed to the protection and preservation of our oceans.

From 2021, the Fund became the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFF), which has strengthened the European Union’s commitment to sustainability in all aspects related to the sea. The European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) has taken over the management of the EMFF, which has improved efficiency in the implementation of programmes and projects.

During the 10th anniversary of the FEMP, it is crucial to highlight the successes achieved so far and reaffirm our commitment to protecting our oceans for generations to come. This achievement reminds us that we must work together, both nationally and internationally, to address the challenges facing our marine environment and ensure its long-term sustainability.