MEDAC - Mediterranean Advisory Council

Advisory Councils celebrate 20 Years of stakeholder engagement at EMD 2025 in Cork

22 May, from 15:45 to 17:00, at the Hotel Clayton, Pegasus Rooms 3+4 Halls

This year marks 20 years of the Advisory Councils (ACs) driving stakeholder dialogue in EU fisheries and aquaculture, and there is no better occasion to celebrate than at European Maritime Day 2025 in Cork. Join us for a high-level workshop, "Celebrating Advisory Councils’ success in view of the Oceans Pact", taking place on 22 May, from 15:45 to 17:00, at the Hotel Clayton, Pegasus Rooms 3+4 Ha.

This milestone event will highlight how the ACs have helped shape sustainable fisheries and aquaculture governance across Europe, strengthening both socio-economic resilience and marine conservation. In view of the Oceans Pact, the workshop offers a timely opportunity to spotlight the power of participatory governance and invite fresh perspectives into the conversation.

The programme includes a new video introduction to the Advisory Councils, an overview of ACs’ success stories which contributed to shaping EU fisheries policy, and a dynamic panel discussion with AC Chairs and Vice-Chairs representing both industry and other interest groups (OIGs), including:

• Alexandra Philippe – NWWAC OIG Chair
• Yobana Bermúdez – Market AC Chair
• Merel den Held – Pelagic AC OIG Vice-Chair
• Antonis Petrou – Mediterranean AC Coordinator Focus Group EastMed

But the heart of the session lies in its interactivity. Participants will be invited to join breakout groups where their ideas and experiences will shape real policy recommendations. Whether you are a professional from the fishing industry, a civil society advocate, a policymaker, or simply passionate about our seas, your voice will make a difference. The insights gathered will help chart the course for future Advisory Councils’ contributions to the EU sustainable fisheries management, and to the Oceans Pact.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to engage directly in shaping the future of ocean governance and to be part of a truly inclusive conversation about the health and sustainability of our marine environment