This section highlights issues affecting fisheries and aquaculture. These issues are predominantly based on the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department's flagship publication, The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Each topic raises an issue, or a collection of issues, discusses what possible solutions might exist for these problems and what action has been taken, or could be taken, to resolve the problems or improve conditions. It is hoped that raising these issues will stimulate debate and contribute to the development of further innovative ideas for tackling those issues confronting fisheries and aquaculture.

The topics included are not exhaustive. The selection aims to provide users with an idea of the range of issues that are of importance to fisheries and aquaculture. Issues cover governance, national and international, problems of dealing with illegal fishing and overcapacity, the importance of well-defined and secure rights and of participation and transparency in management systems. Integral to good governance are issues of sustainable resource use and ecosystem approaches which are also seen within broader environmental issues, such as climate change. Our perception of what is considered as right and wrong in fisheries is formed by the ethical standards we apply. These underpin our assessment of many issues, including those of development and food security - of critical importance for many of the world's most vulnerable people. Emergencies, such as the 2004 tsunami, arise in fisheries. How can we help prevent the most damaging impacts and what can be done to mitigate unavoidable damage. How we use fish and fish products and the role of trade are also issues that are frequently raised.