The database SSF-LEX provides detailed information on the legal and policy frameworks governing small-scale fisheries across several countries. 

The 10th anniversary of the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication (the SSF Guidelines) is just the occasion to celebrate and highlight SSF-LEX, a tool that supports their implementation. National policies and legal frameworks should address many issues highlighted in the SSF Guidelines to the greatest extent possible. Legislation provides the strongest possible framework for fisheries governance; it facilitates resource management; empowers and protects right holders; and serves to hold duty beaters accountable. Moreover, it facilitates implementation and enforcement of international and regional instruments into national legislation.