The end of the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture (IYAFA 2022) has led to a new era of support for artisanal fisheries and small-scale aquaculture. Several closing events were held around the world, not only to recognize the importance of small-scale fisheries (SSF) and their contribution to food security and poverty alleviation, but also to pledge support. Too Big To Ignore (TBTI) Global had the privilege of co-organizing the Closing Ceremony for Asia with the Thailand Department of Fisheries, in Bangkok on 28 February 2023, in partnership with INFOFISH and with technical support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

About 300 people from more than 40 countries joined this two-hour hybrid event including presentations from fishers’ groups and civil society organizations (CSOs), nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), government and inter-governmental organizations, and research institutions and academics. The speakers reiterated the significant contributions of SSF and fish farmers, in terms of livelihoods and food security, local economy, jobs and employment throughout the value chain. Their contribution to cultural and heritage value, conservation efforts and stewardship ethics were also emphasized.