This study provides an overview of the activities and developments of regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) and regional fisheries advisory bodies (RFABs) from 2000 to 2017, based on a compilation of data and information for 46 RFMOs and RFABs. The aim is to show the role and work of RFMOs and RFABs in the context of regional and global ocean governance, and fisheries sustainability. This is particularly relevant today, as countries face the challenges posed by the Sustainable Development Goals and engage in discussions on the governance of areas beyond national jurisdictions, for example in relation to biological diversity, illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, overfishing and overcapacity, and the establishment of cross-sectoral cooperation between RFMOs/RFABs. For many years, FAO has promoted and supported RFMOs and RFABs, bolstering regional cooperation through the Regional Fishery Body Secretariats' Network (RSN), a forum for promoting consultation and regional dialogue, addressing priority issues of common concern and fostering ongoing cooperation and exchange of information.