ILO Adopts First-Ever Global Guidelines for Fair Recruitment of Migrant Fishers

 New Delhi :  In a landmark move to protect migrant workers in one of the world’s most vulnerable sectors, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has adopted the first-ever Guidelines for Fair Labour Market Services for Migrant Fishers.

The new guidelines finalized after five days of tripartite discussions between governments, fishing vessel owners, and fishers’ organizations from 27 to 31 October 2025 aim to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in the recruitment of migrant fishers worldwide.

According to the ILO, the adoption marks a significant step in advancing decent work standards and reinforcing protections for all fishers. The guidelines complement the Work in Fishing Convention, 2007 (No. 188), which sets global minimum standards on living and working conditions for the fishing industry.

“These Guidelines will inspire and support governments, employers and workers to implement policies and take actions that foster fair labour market services for migrant fishers and enhance the protection of this vulnerable workforce,” said Julie Carlton, Chairperson of the meeting.

The ILO’s Sectoral Policies Department Director, Frank Hagemann, noted that the adoption reflects the power of tripartite dialogue.

“These Guidelines provide a timely and concrete response at a time when solidarity with migrant workers is under pressure, sending a strong and positive signal to the world,” he added.

Key Provisions of the New Guidelines

The Guidelines for Fair Labour Market Services for Migrant Fishers include practical measures such as:

- Clear distribution of responsibilities among stakeholders.

- Liability and financial security mechanisms in cases of abandonment.

- Rules for transfer at sea and shore leave.

- Model agreements for fishers and recruiters.

- Safeguards against deception and exploitation.

- Accessible complaint mechanisms in all States.

- Enhanced cross-border cooperation among authorities.

These measures aim to ensure transparency throughout the recruitment chain and strengthen accountability at both national and international levels.

Tripartite Commitment to Decent Work

Representing the Workers’ Group, Johnny Hansen, Vice-Chair, called the guidelines “a milestone” for the fishing sector.

 “Fishing remains one of the most challenging and least regulated industries in the world of work. These Guidelines give us a real opportunity to ensure that recruitment is fair, rights are respected, and fishers everywhere can work with dignity and safety.”

The Employers’ Group, led by Cor Blonk, emphasized collaboration and balance.

 “Employers are firmly committed to fair recruitment and decent working conditions. These Guidelines provide clear and balanced tools that help all actors meet their responsibilities,” he said.

For governments, the adoption is a crucial step toward better oversight and international coordination.

 “These Guidelines provide a collaborative framework for governments, employers and workers to ensure that recruitment and employment practices are both lawful and humane,” said Shaun Rogers, Vice-Chair of the Governments’ Group.

The ILO expects these Guidelines to serve as a reference point for national legislation and policy reforms, strengthening protection for the world’s migrant fishers and fostering a fairer global fishing industry.