Mediterranean Programme

The Mediterranean Sea is a hotspot of extinction risk for sharks and rays. A complex body of water home to more than 80 species of shark, ray and skate of which over 50% are at risk of extinction. Surrounded by 22 different countries across 3 continents, and home to roughly 57,000 small boats, nearly 6,000 trawlers, and almost 4,000 purse seiners (other fleet segments represent another 3,700 vessels), the Mediterranean Sea is subject to a broad range of diverse fisheries pressures (SoMFi, 2025). Other threats include habitat destruction, pollution, deoxygenation, and climate change. Working through a network of regional partners, our Mediterranean programme spans policy engagement, species-specific recovery programmes, and community outreach.