Participatory planning and implementation are crucial to protect fisheries resources and ensuring food security. Sustainable Resource Management, Biodiversity Conservation, and Alternative Livelihoods are the means for the Survival of Small-Scale Fishers.
These were among the key messages raised during a rally and awareness-raising event organized by the COAST Foundation in Cox’s Bazar on November 21, in observance of International Fisheries Day 2025. Supported by the APFP-FO4A program, this year’s commemoration centered on the theme: “Sustainable Fisheries for Prosperity — Protect Aquatic Ecosystems and Conserve Fisheries Resources.”
The rally was inaugurated by Md. Rashed Ahmed, Senior Fisheries Officer of Cox’s Bazar, who attended as Chief Guest. Also present as Special Guests were Md. Gias Uddin, General Secretary of Khurushkul Fishermen’s Samity, and Roksana Akter Rupa, UP Member of Pokkhali Union Parishad. Leaders of the District Networking Committee also joined the event.
Starting from the Khurushkul Wind Power Plant area, the rally moved through the community and concluded at the fish market in Chawfaldhondi Bazar. It was followed by a panel discussion titled “Management and Biodiversity of Open Water Bodies in Bangladesh: Current Status and Challenges.”
Speakers emphasized that inclusive decision-making is vital for poverty reduction and for sustaining the livelihoods of small-scale fishers. They highlighted the need for alternative income opportunities, supported by access to finance, training, and business development services, to help fishers diversify and reduce dependence on a single livelihood.
Representing COAST Foundation, Program Officer Md. Babul Hossen presented the keynote paper. He stressed the importance of maintaining natural river flows, adopting a One Health approach, and ensuring effective management plans for open water bodies to enhance fish production and strengthen food security. Other contributors included women fisher leader Shamima Akter and local journalist Md. Imam Khayer. A total of 55 women from small-scale fishing communities in Khurushkul and Pokkhali Unions participated in the rally and discussion.
In his remarks, the Chief Guest called for stronger policy actions to curb pollution and protect open waters. The Special Guests urged the enforcement of legal measures to safeguard the breeding of native fish species in rivers, canals, and other natural water ecosystems. Women leaders demanded active protection of local ecosystems from the impacts of commercial aquaculture, eco-tourism, and dredging.
Participants concluded that the significance of International Fisheries Day must extend beyond symbolic celebrations. They stressed the need to put these commitments into practice at the local level, convey their demands to policymakers, and continue strengthening advocacy for sustainable fisheries governance.
The Asia-Pacific Farmers’ Program (APFP) – Farmers’ Organizations for Asia (FO4A) is implemented by the Asian Farmers’ Association for Sustainable Rural Development (AFA) and La Via Campesina (LVC), with funding from the European Union (EU) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The program aims to strengthen the capacities of farmers’ organizations to provide economic services, advocate for enabling policies, and promote sustainable livelihoods for small-scale family farmers across Asia.
APFP-FO4A is implemented in Bangladesh by the COAST Foundation.
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