By Pita Ligaiula in Manila, Philippines
The Indonesian Migrant Worker Union (SBMI) has issued a compelling plea to the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC22), emphasizing the need to end at-sea transshipment and advocating for comprehensive observer coverage as well as urgent enforcement of new labor standards aimed at preventing the abuse of crew members on distant-water vessels.
During the Tuna Commission’s discussion surrounding the Technical and Compliance Committee (TCC21) report, SBMI articulated that the effectiveness of regional fisheries regulations is contingent upon the protection of maritime workers. They urged commission members to expedite necessary reforms rather than delaying them.
“I represent the Indonesian Migrant Worker Union or SBMI. We extend our gratitude to the TCC Chair for their diligent efforts over the years,” SBMI representatives stated.
The union expressed its support for the TCC Chair’s proposal regarding the review obligations under the Compliance Monitoring Scheme (CMS) set for 2026. They utilized their platform to advocate for significant reforms, particularly concerning the controversial practice of at-sea transshipment, which has long been a contentious issue within the Commission.
“SBMI is firmly in favor of phasing out transshipment at sea,” they declared. “The end of at-sea transshipment is vital not only due to insufficient catch monitoring but also for the protection of crew members. The risk of forced labor, exacerbated by extended isolation at sea—a situation facilitated by transshipment—has been acknowledged by the adoption of the Labour Standards CMM.”
Additionally, the union emphasized the necessity of enhancing monitoring coverage throughout the region’s fleets. They strongly advocated for an incremental increase in observer coverage, including both on-board personnel and electronic monitoring, proposing a climb from the current 5 percent to a target of 100 percent for all vessels.
While SBMI praised New Zealand’s drafted audit points for the execution of the new labor standards CMM, they cautioned that this critical issue seems to be diminishing within the Commission’s formal work plan.
“We have noticed that the discussion on the audit points for the CMM Labour Standard is not explicitly included in the TCC Workplan for 2025-2027,” the union remarked, pushing for an urgent dialogue on these points.
They called upon the Commission to expedite preparations for the effective implementation of the CMM Labour Standards, prioritizing the discussion, finalization, and adoption of audit points by 2027.
SBMI underscored the importance of choosing to safeguard both people and marine life, pointing out that WCPFC regulations are meaningful only if they ensure the well-being of sea workers.
“It is evident that our decisions today will shape our commitment to dignity or disregard,” emphasized the union. “Protecting the workforce is integral to conserving our fisheries. Let us move forward together in safeguarding those whose efforts sustain this essential industry.”
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