GFCM
The General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean

The GFCM 2012 ban on fishing and retaining the 24 species of exceptionally vulnerable Mediterranean shark and ray species (listed on Annex II of the Barcelona Convention, an international environmental treaty aimed at protecting the Mediterranean) includes commercially valuable shortfin makos, endangered guitarfishes, and critically endangered angel sharks. There is, however, very little evidence that the measure has been properly implemented through domestic prohibitions.

We’re urging the GFCM to address non-compliance with the shark and ray measure, and its Parties to immediately adopt corresponding national bans, as agreed in 2012.

Download our position statement amendment for a strong shark finning ban, 42nd Meeting of the GFCM

Download our 2018 GFCM factsheet: Elasmobranch Conservation – Progress & Priorities

Download our 2018 GFCM Working Group on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fisheries position statement

Download our 2017 GFCM position statement