Indonesia submits ILO Convention 188 ratification instrument in Geneva
Minister of Manpower Yassierli said the submission marks an important milestone for Indonesia in strengthening worker protection in the fishing sector.
According to him, the ratification of ILO Convention 188 demonstrates Indonesia’s commitment to ensuring safe, decent, and humane working conditions for fishing vessel crews.
“The submission of the instrument of ratification of ILO Convention 188 concerning Work in the Fishing Sector reflects Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening worker protection, particularly for fishermen and fishing vessel crews,” the minister conveyed in a statement on Thursday.
As a maritime and archipelagic country, Indonesia considers fisheries a strategic sector for economic growth. At the same time, it is a demanding industry that must uphold the safety, welfare, and dignity of the workers.
Yassierli said this protection applies to fishing vessel crews working in Indonesian waters as well as Indonesian migrant workers working as crew members on fishing vessels abroad.
“They face extreme weather, the risk of occupational accidents, long working hours, and working conditions that require strong, consistent, and effectively implemented protection standards,” he outlined.
The ratification is also important for the wider community, as the fisheries sector encompasses not only economic output and marine products but also the welfare of those working behind the industry.
Fishery products delivered to consumers should be produced under conditions that protect the safety, health, dignity, and basic rights of fishing vessel crews.
The submission of the original instrument of ratification of ILO Convention 188 follows the ratification of ILO Convention 188 through Presidential Regulation Number 25 of 2026.
Through this step, Indonesia affirms its commitment to advancing decent work in the fishing sector.
As the convention enters the implementation phase, Indonesia welcomes ongoing technical cooperation with the ILO, particularly in bolstering the ability of maritime and fisheries authorities to undertake labor inspections that meet international standards.
The minister then stated that the implementation of ILO Convention 188 requires cooperation between the government, employers, and workers to ensure that decent work principles in the fisheries sector are applied effectively, practically, and sustainably.
He also emphasized Indonesia’s commitment to enhancing worker protection in the fisheries sector while maintaining business sustainability, sector productivity, and fair labor governance.
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Translator: Arnidhya Nur Z, Resinta Sulistiyandari