This manual is aimed at all decision-makers who may need to collect data to build socio-economic indicators. At an international level, it can be used to facilitate and simplify reporting under international conventions and agreements on matters relating to the sustainable development of the world's fisheries. Regional fisheries bodies and stakeholders involved in fisheries decision-making, such as the fishing industry, other user groups, certification bodies, local communities and non-governmental organizations may also draw upon this manual to assist in meeting societal goals for fisheries. The methodologies can be applied to fisheries at many different levels, from individual fisheries and coastal management units to a global level. It aims to encourage consistent use of statistical methods in data collection. Governments may also wish to adapt the manual to the specific requirements of their national fisheries.