Project Pillars of the Sea 3

The project as a whole, is a continuation of the Pillars of the Sea II project, and in partially implementing the work programme of the Sectoral Social Dialogue Committee for Sea Fishing in order to significantly make progress in various key areas of interest for Social Partners. 

With the support from the European Commission, Pillars of the Sea 3 united industry specialists and stakeholders to deliver actionable solutions that address social sustainability in the fisheries sector. The initiative, part of the European Social Dialogue for Sea Fisheries, emphasises fair recruitment, worker safety, occupational health, and effective communication for multinational crews, paving the way for a safer and more worker-friendly industry worldwide.

Key Areas of Focus for ‘Pillars of the Sea 3’:

Trade measures to combat forced labour in fisheries. The project examined the potential for EU customs authorities to restrict seafood imports from vessels or countries with documented labour abuses, including forced and child labour. This effort seeks to protect human rights and foster sustainable practices throughout the seafood supply chain, in line with the EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy.

 

Guidelines for fair recruitment of migrant fishers. This pillar provides comprehensive guidelines for fishing companies and crew agencies to promote ethical recruitment practices and uphold workers’ rights as well as model contracts of employment based on EU legislation and international labour standards. These guidelines aim to enhance transparency in hiring and to attract skilled young professionals to the fishing industry.

Training programme for medical examination of fishers. Addressing fishers’ specific occupational health needs, the project developed a training program for medical practitioners authorised to conduct mandatory medical exams for fishers under ILO’s Work in Fishing Convention (C188). This programme ensures that practitioners can identify and manage the unique health risks associated with fishing.

‘Fishery Speak’ Mobile App. Based on feedback from stakeholders, the project enhanced the Fishery Speak mobile application, a mobile glossary of essential maritime terms, by adding new languages and functionalities. These updates improve communication among multinational crews, contributing to safety and effectiveness on board.

Fishery Speak Website