Global marine and inland fisheries provide food security to millions of people, supplying a vital source of high-quality dietary protein and supporting livelihoods and incomes.
It is widely acknowledged, however, that the productivity of global fisheries as a source of food is declining, caused primarily by unsustainable and destructive fishing practices and distorting subsidies, and aggravated by climate change.
In the present report, the Special Rapporteur identifies the challenges facing global fisheries and examines how the individuals most vulnerable to negative impacts (the residents of developing coastal and island countries, especially low-income food-deficit countries) can be supported to ensure the progressive realization of the right to food, noting that pursuing a human rights approach is critical to achieving sustainable development in the fisheries sector.
'Fisheries and the right to food', Report presented at the 67th Session of the United Nations General Assembly [A/67/268] (also available in French and Spanish