Recommendation WECAFC/XX/2025/2: Progress on development of the Registry of Experts to include draft Progress on development of the Registry of Experts and Recommendation to WECAFC20.

This recommendation supports the creation of a digital regional registry of fisheries experts for the Western Central Atlantic. It recalls that the need for such a tool was identified in earlier Commission sessions and is included in the current work plan as a cross‑cutting activity to strengthen sustainable fisheries management. The text endorses continued development of the draft registry template, outlines the main information fields, and notes the need for technical support to ensure usability. It presents governance options for long‑term maintenance, with Member‑led oversight aligned to the rotating chairmanship identified as the preferred approach. Implementation steps include collaborative work between scientific and working groups, virtual consultations, and a retreat to refine the template. The recommendation also calls for alignment with FAO data‑protection rules and circulation of the draft for Member review before formal endorsement.

2026-01-01