The European Union and FAO deliver new equipment to enhance Ukraine’s fisheries science and governance

The European Union and FAO deliver new equipment to enhance Ukraine's fisheries science and governance

The equipment package worth USD 135 744 will enable advanced on-board research, strengthen evidence-based fisheries management, and support Ukraine's alignment with EU standards

Ukraine's fisheries sector continues to operate under exceptionally difficult conditions due to the ongoing war. Limited access to key water bodies, damaged monitoring and research infrastructure, and disrupted institutional capacities have significantly affected the country's ability to conduct systematic scientific assessments and ensure the sustainable use of aquatic bioresources.

In response to these challenges, and with funding from the European Union, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) handed over a package of modern machinery and scientific equipment to the Institute of Fisheries, Marine Ecology and Oceanography. This support assists the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture and the State Agency of Ukraine for the Development of Melioration, Fisheries, and Food Programs in their efforts to strengthen scientific capacity, enable the resumption of field-based scientific expeditions, and reinforce the evidence base required for effective and responsible fisheries management - an important step toward sector recovery and Ukraine's progress toward EU integration.

"Even in times of war, Ukraine remains committed to building a modern and resilient fisheries sector grounded in science, transparent governance, and responsible use of aquatic resources. Strengthening the capacity of our research institutions is essential for ensuring that policy decisions are informed by accurate data and that reforms in the fisheries sector advance in line with Ukraine's strategic priorities," said Taras Vysotskyi, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture. "We appreciate the support of the European Union and FAO, whose partnership helps safeguard the continuity of scientific work and reinforces the foundations for long-term, EU-aligned sector development."

As Ukraine advances regulatory and institutional reforms in the fisheries sector, alignment with European principles of sustainability, transparency and responsible resource management becomes increasingly important. The European Union and FAO have been central partners in this process, supporting the modernisation of governance systems and the development of institutions capable of delivering high standards of environmental stewardship.

"The European Union recognises the critical role that reliable scientific data plays in the sustainable use of fishing stocks and in safeguarding marine ecosystems. For Ukraine, strengthening this capacity is not only a technical requirement but an essential element for integrating into European systems of control, reporting and resource management," noted Stefan Schleuning, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine. "By investing in the institutions responsible for scientific assessments, we are supporting Ukraine in building the credibility, transparency and traceability that underpin fisheries governance across the European Union."

To translate this commitment into practical support, the Institute of Fisheries, Marine Ecology and Oceanography has received two research boats with engines and trailers, two vehicles for field operations, and a suite of water analyzers and microscopes for ecological and biological assessments. The equipment will support on-board scientific research to monitor fish populations, habitats and environmental conditions, generating the high-quality data required to determine sustainable catch levels and inform fisheries management decisions.

"Today's handover goes far beyond equipment - it represents a shared commitment to rebuilding Ukraine's fisheries sector on a foundation of science, modern standards, and international cooperation. Thanks to the strong partnership with the European Union, we are jointly supporting Ukraine's efforts to generate high-quality data, manage bioresources responsibly, and modernize key institutions. FAO remains dedicated to providing technical expertise and long-term support to ensure the sector's sustainable recovery and development," said Shakhnoza Muminova, Head of FAO Ukraine Office.

This cooperation represents a broader shift toward rebuilding the fisheries sector on principles that ensure its long-term viability: scientific integrity, modern governance, and adherence to internationally recognised standards. As Ukraine continues to navigate the challenges of wartime recovery and institutional transformation, strengthening the foundations of its fisheries science and management becomes central to shaping a sector that can contribute reliably to the country's economic future and integration into wider European systems.

Contact

Viktoriia Mykhalchuk

FAO Ukraine Communications Coordinator
(+38) 098 605 5061

[email protected]