Costa Rica promotes the development of sustainable small-scale fisheries
The SOFIA highlights the country’s example by adapting the Voluntary Guidelines for the Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) in the legal and regulatory framework, by incorporating the situation experienced by Costa Rican fisherwomen and fishe
Mollusc gatherers ©FAO Costa Rica
Costa Rica drafted a bill to guarantee the development of the artisanal fishing sector and to benefit the local coastal communities, according to The State of the World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2018 (SOFIA), a publication of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The new report published today highlights the country’s commitment to recognize the contribution of small-scale fisheries to guarantee food and nutrition security and reduce poverty.
The Costa Rican Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture (INCOPESCA), with the technical support of FAO, participated in the consultation process of the main actors of the fishing sector, academia, nongovernmental organizations and legislators. This was with the purpose of knowing the main needs and requirements of the sector, which was the basis of the proposal of the legislative framework for the sector.
The draft general law for the sustainability of the artisanal fishing sector, in the context of food security, poverty eradication and shared governance, file No. 20.750, highlights the role of women in fisheries and promotes the importance of preserving local traditional knowledge.