This week, a Presidential Decree was published establishing four new fishing protected areas in Amorgos, Greece, fulfilling the local fishers’ longstanding call for protection.
This milestone is the result of an initiative launched 11 years ago by the Professional Fishing Association of Amorgos—an act of collective courage for the future of the sea and the local economy. Since then, it has become a shining example of cooperation between fishers, scientists, institutions, civil society, and both local and national authorities, united by the common goal of safeguarding the seas and supporting fishers’ livelihoods.
Angela Lazou, Greece Projects Manager at Blue Marine mentioned “This achievement is a profoundly moving highlight in my 20-year professional journey. It is one of the biggest marine victories in Greece, for what it symbolises and what it can trigger from now on.”
Over the last four years, a strong and enduring collaboration has flourished between the fishers of Amorgos, the Cyclades Preservation Fund (CPF), Blue Marine Foundation and the Agricultural University of Athens, joining forces to establish these protected areas.
Just a month ago, the Prime Minister of Greece described Amorgorama as a model project worthy of support, highlighting the government’s commitment to targeted measures for the restoration, recovery, and resilience of marine species and biodiversity—including the pledge to designate 10 per cent of Greece’s territorial waters as no-fishing zones. The new protected areas of Amorgos mark a first concrete step toward this national goal and can serve as an inspiring example for other regions to follow.
We extend heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed to the tireless struggle—one that honours the fishers of Amorgos and inspires hope for fishing communities across Greece and the Mediterranean.
Today, a vision has finally become reality and we are so proud to be part of it!
