The European Union has decided to extend the exception allowing small-scale fishermen in the Baltic Sea to continue catching herring, despite concerns about overfishing.

This decision comes after a proposal by the EU Commission to abolish the exception was rejected by a majority of EU states.

The exception permits fishermen to use small boats and passive gear like gillnets, which is crucial for the survival of coastal fisheries in regions like Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

Fisheries expert Christopher Zimmermann welcomed the decision, noting that the current low catch limits have minimal biological impact.

However, environmental groups argue that the fishing limits are still too high, exacerbating the ecological strain on the Baltic Sea.

The ongoing conflict with Russia further complicates the situation, as data sharing on fish stocks has been disrupted.