Fiji’s domestic fisheries sector, despite its considerable development, is grappling with persistent challenges that limit its full potential. Issues such as inadequate value-adding, processing inefficiencies, and the need for sustainable stock management have led the Fiji Fishing Industry Association (FFIA) to implement six crucial social policy guidelines aimed at overcoming these obstacles.
These guidelines concentrate on essential areas including the eradication of child and forced labor, ensuring clear employment contracts, promoting occupational health and safety at sea, safeguarding freedom of association and collective bargaining, and enhancing corporate responsibility and transparency. The primary goal is to elevate industry standards and guarantee that fisheries development is conducted in a responsible and socially sustainable manner.
Mere Lakeba, Country Director for Conservation International-Fiji, underscored the significance of these new policies amidst the existing challenges in the fisheries sector. She remarked, “It is quite surprising that having a mature domestic fishing sector, there’s still an opportunity to build awareness and understand how many employees are engaged in this sector.” This initiative seeks to deepen the comprehension of workforce dynamics and the broader implications of fisheries practices in Fiji.
Lakeba pointed out that the policy will revolve around three pivotal pillars: environmental sustainability, economic viability, and social performance. To facilitate these goals, Conservation International will work in tandem with the FFIA to devise interventions that promote these core aspects within the industry, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future for Fiji’s fisheries.
Radika Kumar, President of FFIA, highlighted a notable increase in awareness regarding social issues within the fisheries sector since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Social issues on fishing vessels only came to the regional limelight during the pandemic when numerous virtual discussions, led by SPC, took place,” Kumar explained, noting that this heightened awareness has fostered broader engagement with various stakeholders.
Although an official rollout date for the policies has not yet been established, the FFIA is dedicated to collaborating with Conservation International and other partners to pilot these guidelines following a soft launch. This collaborative initiative represents a proactive approach to ensuring the long-term sustainability and social responsibility of Fiji’s fishing industry. The ultimate aim is to enhance the support for the workforce within the fisheries sector and improve overall industry health, paving the way for a more resilient economy built on responsible marine resource management.