The vulnerable marine ecosystem (VME) concept emerged from discussions at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and gained momentum after UNGA Resolution 61/105. The FAO International Guidelines for the Management of Deep-sea Fisheries in the High Seas (FAO DSF Guidelines) build on the resolution and provide details on the VME concept for fisheries management. VMEs are now firmly embedded in regimes for the management of deep-sea fisheries in the areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ).

VMEs are groups of species, communities or habitats that may be vulnerable to impacts from fishing activities. The vulnerability of an ecosystem is related to the vulnerability of its constituent population, communities or habitats. Specific criteria are included in the FAO DSF Guidelines to assist States in defining VMEs and how to identify them.

Deep-sea fishing activities sometimes employ types of fishing gears that can, in the normal course of operation, come into contac...

The vulnerable marine ecosystems database was developed in collaboration with the regional bodies with mandates to manage deep-sea fisheries in areas beyond ...