Plan Bleu, WWF North Africa, WWF Mediterranean, and SPA/RAC jointly organized, from 24 to 26 September 2025 in Tunis, a sub-regional workshop entitled:
“Bridging Science and Policy for Shark and Ray Conservation and Management: Advancing research, management tools, and socio-economic understanding in the Southern Mediterranean”
Beyond their ecological role, sharks and rays are an integral part of the Mediterranean’s natural and cultural heritage.
This workshop brought together scientific experts, representatives of national and regional institutions, as well as field practitioners, with the aim of strengthening the science–policy dialogue and promoting the sustainable management of sharks and rays—species that play a key role in Mediterranean marine ecosystems but are now under severe threat.
Over the course of three days, participants:
- Shared ongoing national and regional initiatives (Tunisia, Libya, and cross-border projects), as well as the latest IUCN scientific assessments, providing new insights into species population status and genetics.
- Analyzed global, Mediterranean, and national policy frameworks and action plans, while exchanging on spatial management and conservation tools, including innovative approaches such as voluntary no-take zones and participatory planning.
- Explored the socio-economic dimensions of conservation, emphasizing the need to balance biodiversity protection with the livelihoods of local communities, and examined opportunities for economic diversification.
- Discussed technical solutions for monitoring and reducing bycatch, issues related to species trade, and fisheries management tools proposed by regional organizations such as FAO and the GFCM.
- For Plan Bleu specifically, this workshop was an opportunity to present the findings of its recent study “Socio-Economic Impact Study on Implementing Conservation Measures for Cartilaginous Fish Species in the Gulf of Sirte, Libya” and to discuss them with local stakeholders. The study will be made available online soon – stay tuned.
The workshop concluded with the identification of priority actions and joint commitments, reflecting a shared determination to strengthen synergies between national and regional initiatives, mobilize the necessary funding, and continue cooperation to ensure a sustainable future for sharks and rays in the Southern Mediterranean.
