EFCA Annual Report 2015

This Annual Report provides a comprehensive overview of the performance and the achievements of the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) in 2015. The coordination of the Member States fisheries control activities and the support to the Member States and to the European Commission in the monitoring, control and surveillance of the Common Fisheries Policy constitute the overarching role of the EFCA. Its tasks also encompass the international dimension of this policy. The Regional Groups of Member States and the Agency have developed a successful cooperation model, based on the principles of the reformed Common Fisheries Policy as laid down in the 2014 basic regulation. This cooperation significantly contributes to a smooth implementation by the Member States of the monitoring measures with regard to the landing obligation. EFCA has also assisted the European Union to cooperate with third countries and international fisheries organisations, to improve compliance with fishery control rules and measures and in particular those to combat IUU fishing. This assistance includes the cooperation within the Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) as well as the implementation of Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements.