Understanding working conditions of fishers in Indonesia: Evidence from the 2024 Survey on Decent Work in Marine Fishing

This report presents the findings of Indonesia’s first-ever Survey on Decent Work in Marine Fishing, conducted by the ILO in collaboration with the Research Center for Population of the National Research and Innovation Agency (PRK-BRIN). The survey results are enriched by qualitative research, including focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and stakeholder consultation workshops.

Content also available in: Bahasa Indonesia

Indonesia has ratified 9 of 11 ILO fundamental instruments and is advancing fishers’ welfare through legal reforms. Recently, the Ministries of Manpower and Marine Affairs strengthened joint inspections to enhance enforcement and remediation efforts. Initiatives such as the Trade Union Network, the 2024 Migrant Resource Center, and the integration of human rights into due diligence and fair recruitment practices further demonstrate Indonesia’s commitment to improving labour standards.

The Decent Work Survey in Marine Fishing is another significant step toward promoting Decent Work in the sector. As the first country to undertake this survey, Indonesia is leading the way in ensuring transparency in the fishing industry, guided by the principle that what isn’t measured can’t be improved. Conducted over one year, from November 2023 to September 2024, the survey covered 3,396 fishers in 18 ports, representing four types of ports, namely Sea Fisheries Ports (PPS), Nusantara Shipping Port (PPN), Coastal Waters Ports (PPP) and Fish Landing Bases (PPI). The survey focuses on labour-related issues for Indonesian fishers working onboard Indonesian fishing vessels.

The survey strengthens evidence of severe violations of workers' rights, including forced labour and trafficking for forced labour. It supports the ILO's mission to eliminate forced labour through its 8.7 Accelerator Lab Programme and aligns with the efforts of the Blue Fairness Initiative, an ILO’s partner.

Learn more