Indonesia Strengthen Fishing Crew Protection Through ILO Ratification

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is taking its maritime workforce to the global stage, with Manpower Minister Yassierli in Geneva delivering President Prabowo Subianto’s message on the state’s duty to protect workers, especially fishing crews who face some of the world’s most hazardous conditions.

Speaking at the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC), Minister Yassierli underscored Indonesia’s commitment by formally submitting the original instrument of ratification for International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 188 on Work in Fishing to the ILO Director-General.

“I carry President Prabowo Subianto’s message that the state must be present to protect workers in all sectors, including our brothers and sisters at sea," Minister Yassierli said in a press release on Monday, June 8, 2026, as quoted on the ministry's official website.

"Through the ratification of ILO Convention 188, Indonesia reaffirms its commitment to strengthening protection for fishing crews,” he added.

Indonesia had earlier enacted the convention through Presidential Regulation No. 25/2026, laying the legal foundation for its formal submission at the international level.

Minister Yassierli stressed that ratification is crucial given the sector’s unique challenges: crews working far from shore, exposed to harsh weather, long hours, and heightened risks of rights violations.

“This ratification is the state’s commitment to ensuring fishing crews work in conditions that are more decent, safe, and protected. They are an essential part of Indonesia’s maritime economy,” he said.

ILO Convention 188 sets comprehensive standards for fishing crews, covering minimum working conditions, employment agreements, rest periods, accommodation and food, occupational safety and health, medical care, and social security.

For workers, these standards provide stronger guarantees of their basic rights while at sea.

Indonesia’s decision to ratify the convention reflects its role as a major maritime nation and aligns with national priorities to protect citizens working abroad. It also supports global efforts to eliminate forced labor, human trafficking, and exploitation in the fishing industry.

By submitting the ratification instrument, Indonesia signals that safeguarding fishing crews is part of its broader agenda to promote decent work and ensure the marine and fisheries sector develops fairly, safely, and sustainably. ***