The European Union’s landmark plan to restore cod, herring and sprat in the Baltic Sea has failed to rebuild stocks to sustainable levels, according to a new parliamentary study.
The European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS) has released its first comprehensive evaluation of the Baltic Sea Multiannual Plan (MAP), which has been in place since 2016.
While fishing pressure has eased and quotas are now closer to scientific advice, the report warns that key stocks remain in crisis and coastal communities are struggling.
Limited gains after nine years
The MAP was the first EU regional framework for fisheries. It aimed to secure sustainable catches while giving predictability to the sector. The study shows it reduced overfishing and improved quota-setting.
But cod and herring populations remain below safe levels. The precautionary principle has been applied inconsistently, ecosystem impacts are not fully considered, and the EU’s landing obligation is poorly enforced.
Hard hit coastal fleets
The report highlights severe socioeconomic impacts, particularly for small-scale coastal fleets. Many have faced declining catches, lost income, and reduced employment opportunities. Fleet capacity has shrunk sharply in several Member States.
Stakeholders interviewed emphasised that unclear rules and weak regional cooperation exacerbated the challenges.
Calls for stronger safeguards
The study recommends more ecosystem-based and precautionary management, enhanced monitoring, and improved data collection. It also calls for closer regional cooperation and the active involvement of local stakeholders.
Without deeper reforms, the report warns, the Baltic Sea may struggle to reach “good environmental status” and rebuild key stocks.