It might seem provocative, but the main theme of Slow Fish is the right to pleasure.

In the midst of so many dire warnings about the state of our seas, among all the prohibitions we have to remember to stop species like bluefin tuna and swordfish from becoming extinct, now more than ever Slow Food feels the need to give priority to its legendary trademark principle, the right to pleasure.

This is exactly where we must start. If we want to guarantee gastronomic pleasure for ourselves and for future generations, we have to take care of the sea and its resources. And we have to do it now, right now, with no delay and no exception. Time may already have run out, but Slow Fish 2009 doesn’t want to celebrate a lost world. Instead we want to strongly and clearly emphasize the seriousness of the situation so that no one can claim ignorance. From this starting point, we can construct better alternative practices, practices that are sustainable, good, clean and fair.

Slow Fish 2009 wants to convey the emotions and passions, to involve the public more completely and to raise awareness more effectively. Based on Slow Food’s three pillars of Educate, Promote and Protect, the events, meetings and discussions providing information and news will be joined by many opportunities for learning and pleasure, with gastronomical tastings and cooking demonstrations.

We invite you to start to navigate your way around Slow Fish 2009, exploring the rich and varied program detailed in the following pages, in order to prepare for Genoa. We hope to see you there from April 17-20, in the beautiful new Pavilion B at the Genoa Fiera exhibition grounds. Designed by Jean Nouvel and directly facing the sea, it is the perfect home for Slow Fish.