Fostering Collaboration for Sustainable Fisheries: CTI-CFF and ILO Meet in Jakarta

Fostering Collaboration for Sustainable Fisheries: CTI-CFF and ILO Meet in Jakarta

In a pivotal meeting held at the International Labour Organization (ILO) Office in Jakarta, the Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security (CTI-CFF) convened with representatives from the ILO to discuss crucial issues surrounding the blue economy and decent and appropriate labor practices within the fishing sector, particularly in captured fisheries.

Representing CTI-CFF were Executive Director Dr. Frank Keith Griffin and Deputy Executive Director for Program Services Mr. Christovel R. S. Rotinsulu and Communication and Information Manager, Ms Dewi Satriani. On the other side, the ILO was represented by Director of ILO Jakarta Office Mrs. Simrin Singh and National Programme Coordinator for the 8.7 Accelerator Lab Project Mr. Muhamad Nour. The primary objective of the meeting was to explore potential avenues for collaboration between the two organizations, with a specific focus on labor challenges within the fishing industry.

The CTI countries, rich in marine resources, heavily rely on the fishing sector for both economic sustenance and the livelihood of their communities. Recognizing the significance of addressing labor issues in this sector, the ILO is committed to improving labor conditions as a cornerstone of the blue economy. Integrating labor standards in the fishing sector is deemed essential for the success of sustainable fisheries—a key component of the blue economy.

CTI-CFF, with its emphasis on promoting sustainable practices in blue economy sectors, including fisheries, tourism, and livelihoods, aligns closely with the goals of the ILO. Notably, CTI-CFF is gearing up to host the Global Blue Economy Conference in partnership with the Blue Institute during the Coral Triangle Day celebrations in June 2024 in Manado, where discussion around improving peoples’ livelihood through decent and appropriate labor practices within the fishing sector, will be a particular focus.

Both parties have agreed to continue discussions to explore potential areas of collaboration as a follow-up to this meeting. By joining forces, CTI-CFF and the ILO aim to catalyze positive change in the fishing industry, ensuring the protection of marine ecosystems and the well-being of those who depend on them.