New Delhi, India – 14/11/24 – The National Fishworkers Forum (NFF) is proud to announce that General Secretary Olencio Simoes and K. Lakshmi, President of the Traditional Fish Workers Union and NFF Executive member from Andhra Pradesh, will represent India at the 8th General Assembly of the World Forum of Fisher Peoples (WFFP) in Brasília, Brazil, from November 14 to 21, 2024.
Olencio Simoes highlighted the significance of this gathering, noting that the last general assembly was hosted by the NFF in New Delhi from November 15 to 21, 2017, which saw participation from representatives of 50 countries. “The WFFP, which we helped establish on November 21, 1997, in New Delhi, serves as a vital platform for small-scale fishers globally. This day is now celebrated as World Fisheries Day,” Simoes stated.
The assembly in Brazil will provide an opportunity for fishers from around the world to come together and address critical issues affecting their livelihoods and the sustainability of marine resources. The NFF will focus on several pressing topics, including:
- Challenges Faced by Small-Scale Fishers in India: The NFF aims to highlight the struggles of small-scale fishers who are often marginalized in policy-making processes.
- Ocean Grabbing and Blue Economies: Concerns regarding the Sagarmala expansion plans and other blue economy initiatives that threaten traditional fishing practices will be addressed.
- Impact of Climate Change: The assembly will discuss the adverse effects of climate change on marine ecosystems and fishing communities.
- Women’s Issues in Fisheries: The NFF will advocate for the inclusion of women’s voices and concerns in fisheries management and decision-making.
- Cross-Border Issues: The assembly will also tackle the challenges posed by the arrest of Indian fishers by Sri Lanka and Pakistan, emphasizing the need for diplomatic interventions.
- WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies: The NFF will engage in discussions regarding the implications of the World Trade Organization’s agreement on fisheries subsidies, which could significantly impact the livelihoods of small-scale fishers.
Simoes expressed optimism about the upcoming assembly, stating, “This is a crucial moment for fishers around the world to unite and voice our concerns. We must work together to protect our rights, our livelihoods, and our oceans.”
The NFF’s participation in the WFFP General Assembly underscores its commitment to advocating for the rights of fishers and promoting sustainable fishing practices. As the assembly approaches, the NFF looks forward to collaborating with other global representatives to forge solutions to the challenges facing fishing communities worldwide.
