The European Parliament on 27 April 2026 debated Željana Zovko (EPP)’s report on ocean diplomacy for EU fisheries and aquaculture competitiveness, revealing sharp divisions over the EU’s role in ocean governance. France Jamet (PfE) rejected the concept outright, insisting fisheries belong to national competence, while Siegbert Frank Droese (ESN) labelled it colonialism. In contrast, Karin Karlsbro (Renew) stressed the need for multilateral frameworks to tackle overfishing, and Giuseppe Lupo (S&D) demanded new agreements with North African countries to address unfair competition faced by Mediterranean fishers. Emma Fourreau (The Left) emphasised ecological limits, citing harm from krill fishing. On competitiveness, Nora Junco García (ECR) argued fishers face excessive controls and resource cuts, while Zovko framed ocean diplomacy as a tool to defend competitiveness through stronger international rules, action against illegal fishing, and fleet digitalisation.
Consensus on strategic importance Despite the divergences, broad consensus emerged on treating fisheries as strategic for coastal communities and food security, and on the need for action against unfair competition. Commissioner Costas Kadis welcomed the report as input for the Common Fisheries Policy review and the future Vision for Fisheries and Aquaculture. He confirmed a precautionary approach to seabed mining and crisis support for fuel-price shocks. Zovko urged more diplomats for ocean governance and increased budget for fisheries.
Impact on stakeholders The various positions imply different impacts: stronger EU ocean diplomacy could benefit EU fishers and aquaculture producers by levelling international rules and combating illegal fishing, but may impose costs on import-dependent sectors if trade barriers rise. National sovereignty advocates like Jamet and Droese would reduce EU regulatory reach, potentially easing administrative burdens on fishers but weakening collective action against overfishing. Ecological limits pushed by The Left could protect marine ecosystems but constrain fishing quotas, affecting short-term catches. A vote on the report is scheduled for Thursday.