EU-ILO joint visit highlights progress in labour rights for Indonesian fishers in Central Java

SEMARANG, Indonesia (ILO News) – A high-level delegation from the Embassies of the EU Member States in Indonesia, the EU Delegation and ILO visited Central Java on 9-10 September 2024 to gain further insights about joint efforts to promote safe labour migration and decent work for fishers which have been supported by the EU-funded Ship to Shore Rights South East Asia (S2SR SEA) programme. The visit included observation of port activities and learning about the joint monitoring of labour conditions on fishing vessels, the operations of the Migrant Worker Resource Centre (MRC), and engagement with fishers from Central Java.

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© EUICF

As Central Java is also a key province of origin for Indonesian fishers seeking work on foreign fleets, the S2SR SEA programme supports the Serikat Buruh Migran Indonesia (SBMI/Indonesian Migrant Workers Trade Union) to operate a Migrant Worker Resource Center (MRC) in Tegal to provide direct services and support to Indonesian migrant fishers and their families.

During the visit, the Ambassadors of the EU Member States and the EU Delegation and observed activities at the Port of Tegalsari and gained insights into joint labour monitoring process. They also met with key stakeholders, including local government representatives, workers’ union and migrant fishers to discuss the challenges faced and explore potential solutions.

The EU Ambassador to Indonesia, emphasised the strong partnership between the EU and Indonesia, particularly in areas related to decent work and human rights. “Indonesia is a leading global seafood producer. As a strong export market for Indonesia, the EU is committed to supporting the archipelago’s efforts to maintain its leadership in this sector. By working together, we can ensure that Indonesia’s blue economy continues to thrive while prioritising the safety and well-being of its workers, as well as its sustainability.”, H.E. Denis Chaibi said.

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© EUICF

Since 2020, the ILO’s S2SR SEA programme, funded by the EU, has collaborated closely with the Ministry of Manpower, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, and Central Java authorities to develop robust laws and policies for monitoring of working conditions on fishing vessels. This resulted in a groundbreaking Joint Monitoring Team for Labour Norms on Fisheries Vessels at Fishing Ports within the jurisdiction of Central Java province, which was endorsed by the the Decree of the Regional Secretary of Central Java Province Number 523/012 Year of 2023.

“The Central Java government is proud to be part of this significant initiative. Ensuring robust labour protections on fishing vessels is crucial to safeguarding the rights and well-being of our fishers,” said Sumarno, Regional Secretary of Central Java Province.

During their visit to the Tegalsari Fishing Port, the delegation from the EU Member States and the EU Delegation had the opportunity to witness firsthand the efforts made by the Central Java government to promote safe labour migration and decent work for fishers. They met with Indonesian migrant fishers to gain insights of their experience and challenges, and to learn about the support system in place to protect their rights. One of which is the Migrant Worker Resource Centre (MRC) in Tegal operated by the Indonesian Migrant Workers Union (SBMI), a pioneering initiative dedicated to assist migrant fishers. Established in April 2024 with the support of the Ship to Shore Rights South East Asia programme, the MRC provides essential information and resources to prospective migrant workers and offers assistance to access remedies.

The delegation from the EU Member States, the EU Delegation and ILO expressed their appreciation for Central Java’s leadership in protecting the maritime worker’s rights and emphasised the importance of continued collaboration between the EU, Indonesia, and the ILO, to ensure the well-being of Indonesian migrant fishers.

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© EUICF

“Migrant fishers often work in some of the most challenging environments, and protecting their rights is non-negotiable. This visit highlights the progress being made on the ground, showing that when governments, unions, and international partners come together, we can create safer, fairer conditions for fishers to ensure no fisher is left behind,” said Simrin Singh, Director for the ILO Country Office for Indonesia and Timor-Leste.

For more information, please contact

Pichit Phromkade
Communications Officer, Ship to Shore Rights South East Asia programme
ILO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific
Email: [email protected]

Gita Lingga
Senior Communication and Information Management Assistant
ILO Country Office for Indonesia and Timor-Leste
Email: [email protected]

Press and Information Section of the EU Delegation
Email: [email protected]