The International Labour Organization and the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency have signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a new cooperation framework to strengthen labour standards and ensure decent work across the Pacific fishing industry. The agreement aims to reinforce the implementation of key International Labour Standards, including the ILO Work in Fishing Convention, the fundamental principles and rights at work, the WCPFC’s new Conservation and Management Measure on Crew Labour Standards, and the FFA’s harmonized conditions for fishing vessel access.
A major component of the partnership focuses on improving working conditions for fishers, promoting fair treatment, and enhancing oversight mechanisms throughout the region. The cooperation will prioritize technical assistance and capacity building for Pacific Island governments and for workers’ and employers’ organizations. Support will include legal and policy reforms, as well as efforts to strengthen national enforcement systems to ensure compliance in both domestic and foreign fishing operations.
The collaboration will also contribute to broader economic development in the fisheries sector by promoting small and medium enterprise growth, improving skills development, and encouraging environmentally sustainable practices that create decent jobs. Emphasizing social dialogue and tripartism, the agreement reinforces joint efforts by governments, employers, and workers to advance labour rights and sustainable development in one of the Pacific’s most vital economic sectors.
Signed on 13 November 2025 by senior representatives of both organizations, the two-year agreement marks an important step toward improved labour governance and stronger protections for workers across the Pacific fisheries industry.
