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

Fostering Collaboration for Sustainable Fisheries: CTI-CFF and ILO Convene 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 ILO representatives to discuss critical issues surrounding the blue economy and labor practices in the fishing sector, particularly in captured fisheries.

CTI-CFF was represented by Executive Director Dr. Frank Keith Griffin, Deputy Executive Director for Program Services Mr. Christovel R. S. Rotinsulu, and Communication and Information Manager Ms. Dewi Satriani. Representing the ILO were Director of the 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 avenues for collaboration, with a focus on addressing labor challenges within the fishing industry.

The CTI countries, rich in marine resources, rely heavily on the fishing sector for both economic sustenance and community livelihoods. Recognizing the importance of 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 industry is considered essential for achieving sustainable fisheries—a key element of the blue economy.

CTI-CFF, with its focus on promoting sustainable practices in blue economy sectors including fisheries, tourism, and livelihoods, aligns closely with the ILO’s objectives. Notably, CTI-CFF will host the Global Blue Economy Conference in partnership with the Blue Institute during the Coral Triangle Day celebrations in June 2024 in Manado. Discussions at the conference will particularly focus on improving livelihoods through decent and appropriate labor practices in the fishing sector.

Both organizations have agreed to continue discussions to identify potential areas of collaboration. By joining forces, CTI-CFF and the ILO aim to drive positive change in the fishing industry, ensuring both the protection of marine ecosystems and the well-being of communities that depend on them.