The EU Common Fisheries Policy

The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is one of the more controversial of the EU's policies, and is widely blamed both for the poor state of Europe's fish stocks and the woes of its fishermen. Under the CFP, the EU is responsible for a wide range of issues. The EU manages fisheries in the waters of Member States and the fishing activities of Member States' fleets. It negotiates agreements permitting vessels from EU States to fish in the waters of other States, and acts as a member (in place of Member States) in regional fisheries management organizations responsible for fishery management beyond national waters. It regulates the marketing of fish, and lays down the rules governing trade in fishery products. The Common Fisheries Policy thus forms a key part of global fisheries law and policy and is an important factor in protection of the marine environment. This book examines all the varied issues in detail, providing a comprehensive overview of the CFP. It looks at the law relating to the Policy, considering the legislation, treaties and judgments of the European Court of Justice in this area. The policy issues crucial to understanding the law on the CFP and its operation in practice are also explored.

Robin R Churchill is Professor of International Law at the University of Dundee. Daniel Owen is a Barrister at Fenners Chambers, Cambridge