The International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen labour standards and ensure decent working conditions across the Pacific fishing industry. The agreement establishes a cooperation framework focused on improving the treatment and protection of fishers in one of the region’s most economically significant sectors.
A major component of the partnership is the promotion and implementation of key international labour instruments, including the ILO Work in Fishing Convention and the recently adopted regional labour standards for fishing crew. The cooperation aims to improve oversight of working conditions, ensure fair treatment of workers, and reinforce compliance mechanisms for both domestic and foreign fishing operations.
The MOU emphasizes capacity building for Pacific Island governments, particularly labour and fisheries ministries, along with workers’ and employers’ organizations. Support will include legal reforms, policy development, and enhanced national enforcement systems to help countries meet international labour obligations and strengthen governance across the sector.
The agreement also aims to support broader economic development by encouraging skills training, promoting environmentally sustainable practices, and fostering small and medium enterprise growth within the fisheries industry. It underscores the importance of social dialogue among governments, employers, and workers in advancing labour rights and sustainable development.
Signed on 13 November 2025 by senior officials from both organizations, the two-year MOU marks a significant step toward improving labour governance and protecting workers in the Pacific fisheries sector.
