Call for Tender: Research Study on Small-scale fishers in Egypt and the militarization of fisheries

Issued by: Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung (RLS), North Africa Office
Date: 09/02/2026
Submission Deadline: 20^th of February 2026

Background

Historically, the Nile and Egypt’s vast coastlines provided a primary source of affordable protein and a pillar of food sovereignty for small-scale producers. However, the fishing sector is currently facing an existential crisis. Small-scale fishers, who have long struggled against exploitation by large vessel owners and brokers, now face a new and daunting challenge: the militarization of natural lakes. Significant fishing grounds, such as Lake Bardawil, have been placed under the direct management of military wings. This shift has led to arbitrary measures, including doubled fishing fees, restricted licensing, and prolonged fishing bans.

Coupled with the pressures of climate change, the neglect of natural lakes in favour of industrial fish farms, and the specific hardships faced by women in “manual fishing,” the Egyptian fishing community is under immense socio-economic and legal pressure.

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung (RLS) North Africa seeks to commission a comprehensive study to document these dynamics and provide a platform for the voices of those resisting this systemic encroachment.

Object of the tender

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung (RLS) North Africa Office is seeking a qualified researcher, journalist, or socio-economic research team to conduct an in-depth study (comprising both theoretical and field research) about fishers in Egypt and the militarization of fisheries.

General Objectives

1. Trace the historical evolution of fishing in Egypt from its roots to its current socio-economic role.
2. Analyse the impact of militarization on natural fisheries and the livelihood of small-scale fishers.
3. Document the struggles of women in the sector, particularly those engaged in manual fishing and shrimp peeling.
4. Assess the role of unions and fishing associations in defending the rights of producers.
5. Evaluate the intersection of climate change and shifting water governance on food security and fishers.

Target Groups    

The series aims to reach a broad audience, including:

• Small-scale fishers and union activists in Egypt.
• Academics, researchers, and NGOs specializing in food sovereignty and environmental justice.
• Regional and international policymakers concerned with sustainable fisheries.

Scope of Work and Deliverables

The study must include, but is not limited to, the following pillars:

1. Historical context: The social and economic evolution of fishing in Egypt.
2. Document the struggles against large vessel owners and brokers (1930s to present).
3. Militarization of natural resources and the consequences of military oversight.
4. Gendered labor: The invisible work of women in manual fishing
5. The impact of seasonal shifts and pollution on fish stocks and fisher safety.
6. Organizational analysis: The current state and effectiveness of fishers’ unions and syndicates.

Proposal, Award and Tender submission deadline

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in socio-economic research or investigative journalism.
• Proven track record in field research, particularly in rural or marginalized communities.
• Expertise in Egyptian labor issues, agricultural/fishery policies, or human rights.
• Strong analytical writing skills in Arabic and/or English.

Submission Requirements:

• A methodological note detailing the approach for both theoretical and field research.
• A portfolio of similar previous research or investigative reports.
• A CV of the lead researcher or team members.
• Valid business registration or professional certifications where applicable.

Deadline for Submission: February 20, 2026.

Languages: Applications can be submitted in English, French, or Arabic.

Send to: Procurement.NorthAfrica@rosalux.org with the subject: Tender: Egypt Fisheries Study.

Note:

*Incomplete applications will be ignored.

*Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further discussion.

Languages

The final study should be delivered in Arabic or English. Applications may be submitted in English, French, or Arabic.

Publishers

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung (RLS) shall be the primary publisher. RLS reserves the right to translate and to share the content across its global networks and partner platforms.

Timeline and deliverables

Contact

For inquiries, please contact: Procurement.NorthAfrica@rosalux.org with the subject line: Questions: Egypt Fisheries Study.