From guidance to practice: FAO internal workshop on co-management approaches

FAO staff from different teams in the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division gathered at FAO headquarters for an internal workshop aimed at shaping the development of a new co-management guidance for small-scale fisheries (SSF). The activity is part of the project “Enhancing equitable, climate-resilient and sustainable small-scale fisheries through the SSF Guidelines implementation,” funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). 

The planned guidance is intended to build on over two decades of co-management practice and responds to key changes in global development and governance frameworks. It also draws from a global practitioner survey and review of existing guidance, which revealed critical gaps in implementation, monitoring, and practical, context-specific tools. 

Participants reviewed proposed content areas and delivery approaches—emphasizing the need for focusing on the facilitator/practitioners who support small-scale fishing communities as the target audience with adaptable, more visual, and digital-friendly tools supported by peer learning and case-based materials. Breakout sessions generated valuable input to shape the next phases of the guidance development process. 

This effort aims to provide inclusive, adaptable, and actionable support to SSF practitioners and their partners worldwide. Next steps will involve broader consultations, content development and validation. 

Learn more:

• SSF Guidelines website 
• Enhancing equitable, climate-resilient and sustainable small-scale fisheries through the SSF Guidelines implementation project