For the first time, all political groups in the European Parliament have acknowledged the challenges faced by Maltese, Gozitan, and other Mediterranean fishers due to aggressions from third-country fishing vessels.

As this legislation progresses, Rapporteur Thomas Bajada—representing the Socialists and Democrats—has received a strong mandate from the European Parliament to lead negotiations.

The Parliament’s stance is clear: the EU must ensure a fairer, more sustainable fishing sector, addressing the specific difficulties local and Mediterranean fishers face.

This includes taking direct action against illegal practices by third-country fishers, in line with international law.

Bajada’s proposed regulations, which represent the highest level of European legislation, will equip the EU with the tools to act against uncooperative third countries in managing shared and sustainable fisheries.

Previously applicable only to Northern seas, these rules will now extend to the Mediterranean, a region significantly affected by unsustainable practices from outside the Union.

For years, Mediterranean fishers were overlooked. Now, with the first Maltese MEP on the PECH Committee, Thomas Bajada is driving a new approach that puts the Mediterranean at the forefront of EU fisheries policy.

These reforms not only address long-standing regional issues but also strengthen food sovereignty and sustainability across Europe.

The committee’s vote marks the beginning of the legislative process, authorising inter-institutional negotiations with the Council and the European Commission—talks that Bajada will lead on behalf of the Parliament.

“The Parliament stands united: we are defending Europe’s food sovereignty and sending a clear message to third countries—unsustainable fishing will not be tolerated. I am proud to lead this file and fight for fishers across all EU sea basins,” Bajada said.

The new rules define legal criteria for identifying countries that enable unsustainable fishing and set out mechanisms for the EU to respond more decisively, including through trade measures.

This policy connects environmental, social, economic, and maritime goals, reinforcing the EU’s leadership in global maritime governance.

As the law advances, Thomas Bajada carries a strong mandate to ensure that the EU’s fishing sector becomes both fairer and more sustainable.

#MaltaDaily