Indonesia to deposit ILO fishing convention ratification

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia Manpower Minister Yassierli is set to deposit the instrument of ratification of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No 188 on Work in Fishing with the ILO director general in Geneva, Switzerland.

Yassierli is scheduled to hand over the document during the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC), according to a statement cited in Jakarta on Monday.

“I am bringing a message from President Prabowo Subianto that the state must proactively protect workers in all sectors, including our brothers and sisters who work at sea,” Yassierli remarked.

The minister said the ratification instrument reflects Indonesia’s strong commitment to ensuring optimal protection for crew members of fishing vessels.

Presidential Regulation No 25 of 2026 marked Indonesia’s ratification of the international legal instrument, which was adopted at the 96th ILC in 2007.

Yassierli emphasized the convention’s significance for Indonesia, noting that the fishing sector is a field of work with high risks and challenges.

He pointed out that fishing workers are often exposed to high safety risks and extreme weather conditions while working long hours and lacking guarantees for the fulfillment of their rights.

“This ratification reflects our commitment to creating safer and more decent working conditions for fishing vessel crews and ensuring that they are protected. These workers form a vital part of Indonesia’s maritime economic strength,” the minister said.

Having entered into force in 2017, the Work in Fishing Convention sets standards covering minimum age requirements, work agreements, rest periods, accommodation and food, occupational health and safety, medical care at sea, and social security, among other aspects.

Yassierli further noted that the deposit of the ratification instrument serves as momentum for Indonesia to renew its determination to strengthen protection for nationals working overseas while contributing to global efforts to combat forced labor, human trafficking, and exploitation in the fisheries sector.

“Indonesia aims to affirm that protecting fishing crews is part of its national agenda to realize decent work conditions and ensure fair, safe, and sustainable development in the marine and fisheries sector,” he concluded.

Related news: Prabowo promises to ratify ILO Convention 188 to protect workers

Translator: Arnidhya Nur, Tegar Nurfitra

Editor: Bayu Prasetyo

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