Advancing ratification and implementation of the Work in Fishing Convention, 2007 (No. 188)

Partnership for Decent Work in Fisheries

20 February 2026

Fishing remains one of the world’s most hazardous sectors. Millions of fishers work under conditions that fall short of internationally recognized labour standards.

In response, the International Labour Organization adopted the Work in Fishing Convention, 2007 (No. 188), establishing minimum standards for safety, working conditions and social protection on board fishing vessels.

However, ratification of Convention No. 188 remains limited, and further action is needed to extend protection to fishers worldwide.

Why Decent Work in Fisheries Matters

Stronger labour standards protect fishers, promote fair competition and reinforce responsible ocean governance.

From Awareness to Action

Ensuring decent work in fisheries requires social dialogue and sustained international cooperation.

In June 2025, on World Oceans Day, the ILO and partners launched a global campaign to promote wider ratification and implementation of Convention No. 188 at the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3).

The Partnership for Decent Work in Fisheries provides a structured framework to advance this collective effort.

On World Oceans Day 2026, one year after launching Partnership to promote ratification of ILO Convention No. 188, representatives from Indonesia, Namibia and the UK shared why decent work in fisheries can’t wait and urged countries to join.

High-Level Launch Event – Partnership for Decent Work in Fisheries

17 March 2026 | Brussels
Thon Hotel EU

The high-level event was the first major gathering convened under the Partnership for Decent Work in Fisheries.

Supported by the European Commission, it brought together governments, employers’ and workers’ representatives, and international partners.

Panellists at the High-Level Launch Event of the Partnership for Decent Work in Fisheries. The five panellists, from left to right, are: Mario Nava, Director-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, European Commission; Steve Trent, CEO and Founder, Environmental Justice Foundation; Lola Fadina, Director of Maritime, UK Department for Transport; Éric Banel, Director General for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Government of France; Frank Hagemann, Director, Sectoral Policies Dept. — From left to right: Mario Nava, Director-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, European Commission; Steve Trent, CEO and Founder, Environmental Justice Foundation; Lola Fadina, Director of Maritime, UK Department for Transport; Éric Banel, Director General for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Government of France; Frank Hagemann, Director, ILO Sectoral Policies Department.

The programme:

Reaffirmed high-level political commitment to strengthening labour standards in the fishing sector
Highlighted the strategic importance of ratifying and implementing Convention No. 188
Shared national experiences and practical pathways towards ratification
Strengthened tripartite dialogue and international cooperation

The event represented the first step in translating the Partnership’s global launch into sustained operational action.

Broader ratification of Convention No. 188 is essential to ensuring that no fisher is left without protection.