Hosted by ICES and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE), this side event brought together marine scientists, policymakers, and resource managers to explore the future of ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM) in the Baltic Sea.
A recording of the full event is available on YouTube.
The Baltic is a shared and vital resource for bordering countries and beyond. It faces multifaceted pressures, from climate change to eutrophication and declining fish stocks. A holistic, integrated, and ecosystem-based management approach is key to shaping the future of the Baltic Sea.
Building on four days of idea exchange, science, and collaboration at ICES Annual Science Conference (ASC) 2025 in Klaipėda, ICES and DG MARE co-hosted this high-level, Baltic-focused side event. It brought together many of the world’s leading marine scientists—and provided a unique opportunity to place a spotlight on the Baltic Sea, its diverse stakeholders, and management challenges.
Explore the programme
The programme for For and from the Baltic is available to download.
The event brought together perspectives from across the ICES community and beyond. Speakers highlighted recent scientific advances, reflected on emerging policy demands, and outlined opportunities to strengthen integrated governance. Their contributions laid the foundation for open dialogue with the audience, helping to shape a shared vision for the Baltic’s future.
Highlights of this side event
Keynote and high-level roundtable: Leaders at ICES, DG MARE, and other prominent organizations shared their insights on the latest advancements and future directions in marine science and management.
Panel discussions and interactive sessions: Participants engaged with experts as they addressed regional challenges, opportunities, and the pivotal role that EBFM can play in the sustainable recovery of the Baltic.
Short presentations by leaders and scientists: Attendees gained a balanced view of the current state of the Baltic, including key findings shared from the ICES Annual Science Conference.
The statement on Baltic science: A powerful joint message to national leaders highlighted the region's urgent scientific needs and priorities.
Following the side event and the ASC closing ceremony, an informal reception was held in S. Vaitekunas Hall, continuing discussions and celebrating shared progress.
Baltic Statement
Building on the discussions and outcomes of the side event, a formal joint statement was issued to national leaders, underscoring the region’s urgent scientific priorities and the need for strengthened cooperation among all Baltic states and across sectors.
