The european union's contribution to sustainable management of marine living resourges in the Arctic:latest developments and future prospects

This study aims at presenting an overview of fisheries relations involving the European Union in the Arctic, considering the exclusive competence recognized to the EU by the Treaties. In exercising such power, the Union has contributed and still contributes to the sustainable management of marine living resources, both within the regional organizations of the area and by concluding agreements with coastal States inspired by the sustainability and conservation of resources that are increasingly exposed to the risk of over-exploitation. No less relevant is the EU effort in strengthening international cooperation in the high seas of the Arctic, guided by the principles of precaution and prevention, and, at the same time, by the aim of a more adequate protection of indigenous peoples. This was demonstrated, in recent times, by the accession to the Agreement for the moratorium on commercial fishing, which consolidates the EU’s commitment to the cooperation for long-term conservation of marine living resources in all marine spaces of the region, while at the same time strengthening its strategic presence in the Arctic.