The Expert Consultation noted that while several Articles in the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries refer to small-scale fisheries and food security, there is little reference to poverty alleviation, and insufficient coverage of small-scale fisheries. The EC therefore recommended the development of a new Article on “Small-scale fisheries and Poverty Alleviation”. Such an Article should include the following elements:
Responsible fisheries that address the Millennium Development Goals
Integration of fisheries into national development and poverty reduction strategies
Strengthening the rights of small-scale fisheries
Empowerment through communication, capacity building and organisation
Fisheries and related policy favouring the poor
Legislation in support of the poor
Appropriate financing for poverty reduction
Pro-poor fisheries management approaches
Reducing vulnerability through better coping mechanisms and social safety nets
Making markets work for the poor
