A recent report titled 'The State of Mediterranean and Black Sea Fisheries 2025' highlights a demographic crisis in small-scale fishing, with nearly half (47%) of fishermen over the age of 40, and only 17% under 25. This trend suggests a worrying lack of young individuals entering the fishing sector. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) emphasizes that the challenge is not merely about the lack of incentives but also concerns sustainability, which poses serious risks to the long-term viability of coastal communities dependent on fishing.

The findings from the report suggest that many countries around the Mediterranean and Black Sea are facing significant barriers to youth participation in fishing. While some young people do engage in the industry, a substantial number struggle to remain in it long-term. The issue is further compounded by socio-economic factors that hinder young people from pursuing careers in fishing, leading to fears for the industry's future and the health of associated coastal communities.

This topic was discussed in a recent Small-Scale Fishermen's Forum focused on empowering the next generation and increasing youth involvement in fishing. As the fishing community contemplates these demographic challenges, stakeholders are called upon to devise strategies that will attract younger participants to ensure the sector's sustainability and resilience for the future.