The European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries has called on the EU and its member states to take collective action to protect sensitive marine species and to better control invasive alien species that threaten EU fisheries. The call follows the adoption of a new committee report backed by a clear majority of MEPs.

MEPs warn that sensitive species play a key role in marine ecosystems and act as early warning indicators of ecological stress. They argue that current EU measures do not go far enough, especially regarding invasive species.

Ecosystem-based management and bycatch cuts

The committee urges the Commission and EU countries to adopt a fully ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management. This includes taking into account pressures such as pollution, land-based impacts, and climate change.

MEPs also call for full implementation of existing fisheries rules to reduce the bycatch of sensitive species. They point to selective fishing gear and the proper implementation of marine protected areas as key tools to reduce unintended catches of species such as cetaceans, sharks, and rays.

Compensation for fishers and more funding

The report stresses that conservation measures must be matched with fair compensation. MEPs ask the Commission to ensure that fishers who lose access to fishing grounds are compensated. They also support adaptation funds for areas that suffer direct economic losses linked to invasive species.

At the same time, the committee calls for increased funding under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and in the next long-term EU budget. The aim is to support invasive species control and the modernisation of the EU fishing fleet.

Invasive species list under scrutiny

MEPs argue that the current EU list of species of Union concern, updated in July 2025, does not reflect the true threat posed by invasive alien species. Only two marine species are included. The committee wants the list improved based on updated science, better monitoring and harmonised indicators across the EU.

The report will be put to a vote in the European Parliament plenary at a later date.