The annual meetings between ICES and recipients of ICES Advice (MIRIA) and Advisory Councils and other Observers (MIACO) took place in hybrid format in January 2026. MIRIA was held on 20–21 January, followed by MIACO on 22–23 January. Both meetings were chaired by ICES Advisory Committee (ACOM) Chair Colm Lordan and brought together advice requesters, stakeholders, and observers to review recent developments in ICES advice and to discuss priorities for the coming year.
Reviewing ICES advice
An overview of ICES advice produced in 2025 was presented to both meetings. Discussions focused on stock status trends across ICES-assessed stocks, with particular concern expressed about declining recruitment observed for many roundfish stocks.
Moving toward ecosystem- and climate-informed advice
A central theme of both meetings was the ongoing development of ecosystem- and climate-informed advice. Requesters and observers highlighted this as an essential evolution of ICES advice. Discussions explored priorities and possible approaches, which will be considered further by ICES Advisory Committee at its March meeting.
Developing future advice frameworks
Participants were updated on the next steps toward WKREFRAME, a workshop scheduled for 2027, which will examine ICES reference points and advisory frameworks, building on recommendations from earlier work. WKREFRAME forms part of ICES broader, ongoing effort to refine how advice on fishing opportunities is developed and communicated, and is expected to involve stakeholders and observers, including input from members of both MIRIA and MIACO.
Tools, biodiversity, and engagement
Participants welcomed the continued development of interactive online advice products, including fisheriesXplorer and adviceXplorer, and provided feedback to support their further development.
ICES also outlined recent advances in biodiversity data, science, and advice. A growing network of ICES groups are contributing to conservation and restoration-related work, including initiatives such as Working Group on Nature Restoration and Recovery (WGREST), building on earlier workshops, and a special request on cumulative impact assessments.
Looking ahead, ICES shared initial plans for a new organizational strategy to be launched in 2027, coinciding with ICES 125th anniversary. MIACO participants also received an update on the Working Group on Stakeholder Engagement (WGENGAGE), highlighting their role in strengthening effective stakeholder engagement and supporting the implementation of ICES Stakeholder Strategy.
Strengthening cooperation
A highlight of the meetings was the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding between ICES and Iceland. This MoU identifies the areas for which ICES will provide scientific advice to Iceland over the coming years, reinforcing collaboration and cooperation.
Together, MIRIA and MIACO continue to play a key role in fostering dialogue, transparency, and collaboration, supporting the ongoing development of ICES advice to meet emerging scientific, management, and policy needs.
