THE VIDEO
In the wake of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, the Together for the Med partnership has released a powerful new video spotlighting a message of hope and determination:
Strong marine protection works—and it’s driven by coastal communities.
Far from being opposed to conservation, local actors—especially small-scale fishers—are often the ones championing it. Across the Mediterranean, they are helping to create and defend no-take zones, proving that ocean conservation and thriving coastal economies can go hand in hand.
We are engaged to mitigate the impact of fisheries on biodiversity, protect key sensitive areas and promote sustainable fishing practices. We are united to collect data on bycatch and depredation and to facilitate ongoing engagement and collaboration with cooperative fishers.
We mobilize and advocate to scaling up successful local solutions, accelerate the implementation of current legislation, influence European and Mediterranean policies, and develop a stronger biodiversity framework for the Mediterranean.
We promote a co-management approach at the regional level through communication, experience sharing, networking and capacity building by and for coastal communities.
We promote a co-management approach at the regional level through communication, experience sharing, networking and capacity building by and for coastal communities.
We are engaged to mitigate the impact of fisheries on biodiversity, protect key sensitive areas and promote sustainable fishing practices. We are united to collect data on bycatch and depredation and to facilitate ongoing engagement and collaboration with cooperative fishers.
We promote a co-management approach at the regional level through communication, experience sharing, networking and capacity building by and for coastal communities.
We mobilize and advocate to scaling up successful local solutions, accelerate the implementation of current legislation, influence European and Mediterranean policies, and develop a stronger biodiversity framework for the Mediterranean.
We foster a shift towards sustainable practices for Mediterranean fisheries via the implementation of certification, labelling process and the accessibility of sustainable seafood alternatives for consumers.
We ensure long-term financial sustainability, essential for effective MPA management. We create new mechanisms to guarantee the financial sustainability of fishermen that shift to sustainable fisheries practices.
We mobilize and advocate to scaling up successful local solutions, accelerate the implementation of current legislation, influence European and Mediterranean policies, and develop a stronger biodiversity framework for the Mediterranean.
Voices from the Coast
I remember that before, we used to catch more than 100 kg. Now, we barely reach 1 or 2 kg. We, as fishermen, have also contributed to the decline in fishing.
Tunisian fisher
[Small-scale fishers] are the sea’s guardians— they’re the first to report any issues or concerns they spot within the boundaries of the marine protected area.
Italian MPA Director
I dove in [the Cap Roux] reserve and it is exceptional. For me, it’s like the Mediterranean from 100 or 150 years ago, and it’s all thanks to the establishment of protection, thanks to the fishers.
French Photographer & Explorer
About us
Since 2017, the Together for the Med network has brought together Mediterranean organisations working in marine conservations, with 50 partners across 15 countries.
Our mission is to reduce fishing pressure and protect coastal ecosystems and communities by building bridges between governance, science, and policy.
The partners collaborate on the design and implementation of conservation projects.
