The Role of Fishing in Global Food Security

Introduction: Understanding the Significance of Fishing in Global Food Security

Global food security refers to the consistent availability, access, and utilization of safe, nutritious food to sustain healthy lives for all populations. Fishing—encompassing capture fisheries and aquaculture—plays a foundational role in this system, supplying nearly 20% of the animal protein consumed globally, particularly in low- and middle-income coastal nations. Beyond mere caloric contribution, fishing supports dietary diversity by providing essential micronutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, and vitamin B12, critical for cognitive development and metabolic health. This makes fishing not just an economic activity, but a direct pillar of public health and resilience in vulnerable communities.

“Fish provides over 50% of the protein intake for more than 3 billion people worldwide, making it indispensable to global food systems.”

The interdependence between fishing and food security is amplified by the sector’s unique position: it delivers both immediate nutrition and long-term livelihood stability, especially in regions where agriculture is constrained by climate or geography. Yet, this critical role is increasingly threatened by overfishing, habitat loss, and climate change, underscoring the urgent need to strengthen fisheries governance and community adaptation.

1. Nutritional impact: Fish is a primary source of high-quality protein and micronutrients, especially in island and delta communities where dietary alternatives are limited.
2. Economic foundation: For over 60 million people globally, fishing supports direct livelihoods through capture, processing, and trade—often forming the backbone of coastal economies.
3. Climate resilience: Fishing communities frequently pioneer adaptive practices such as seasonal migration, diversified fishing gear, and cooperative resource management, building localized resilience to environmental shifts.

Global contribution

Fish contributes approximately 17% of total animal protein intake and 8% of total dietary protein worldwide, with higher shares in coastal and least-developed countries.

Livelihoods

Over 50 million people depend directly on fisheries for income and employment, with small-scale fishers accounting for 90% of the sector’s workforce.

Climate vulnerability and adaptation

Fishing communities face acute climate risks—rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and extreme weather—but simultaneously develop on-the-ground adaptation strategies, including community-based monitoring and marine protected area co-management.

Table 1: Regional Share of Fish in Animal Protein Intake