FAO-CIHEAM International Advanced Course Strengthens Capacity to Promote Decent Working Conditions in Fisheries

From 19 to 23 May 2025, the Isla Cristina National Maritime Training Centre (CNFM) in Huelva, Spain, hosted the International Advanced Course on “Promoting Decent Working Conditions in Fisheries”, jointly organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM). The course was held with the support of the Social Marine Institute in Spain (ISM) and in collaboration with the Spanish National Institute for Safety and Health at Work (INSST).

In the context of the course, FAO GLOBEFISH, through its global expertise in fish trade and market dynamics, underscored the importance of responsible social practices and decent work to meet the evolving expectations of international markets.

In the inauguration, the Mayor of Isla Cristina, Mr. Jenaro Orta Pérez, and the Government’s Deputy Representative (Subdelegate) in Huelva, Spain, Ms. María José Rico Cabrera both emphasized the importance of promoting equitable and sustainable labour practices in the fisheries sector.

The aim of this international advanced course was to enhance participants' capacity to face the social challenges of the fishing sector, in particular those related to the achievement of safe and decent working conditions for all. Over the course of five days, 31 professionals from fisheries administrations, labour inspection bodies, technical advisory institutions and relevant stakeholders deepened their understanding of key social issues affecting fishers and fish workers.

The participants represented a diverse range of countries, including Algeria, Comoros, Egypt, Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Morocco, Namibia, Peru, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, United Republic of Tanzania, Tunisia, Türkiye, Uganda, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America, reflecting the global relevance of promoting decent work in fisheries.

The course delved into international conventions and instruments, highlighting the importance of social dialogue, worker participation and the need for national strategies to enhance compliance of labour standards. Participants were able to delve into issues ranging from occupational health and safety, social protection, and gender equality to migrant workers’ rights, forced labour, and child labour.

Through interactive sessions, practical workshops and case studies, the course provided a comprehensive framework for addressing these critical issues. A key highlight was the emphasis on practical exercises, such as the visit to the local fish market and an inspection exercise onboard a fishing vessel, which equipped participants with the tools and knowledge to identify and address non-compliance and unsafe working conditions.

The organization and facilitation of this advanced course is evidence of FAO GLOBEFISH commitment to promoting social responsibility and decent work in the fishing sector.