The IUF Asia/Pacific views the Guidelines as an important and unique tool for the promotion of the rights and livelihoods of small-scale fishers and fish workers, the advancement of food security and sustainable fisheries.
The Guidelines were explained and discussed in a series of workshops with our members in coastal fishing communities and aquaculture in certain countries in Southeast Asia and South Asia. It should be noted that none of our members were aware of the Guidelines at the time, but through our education activities quickly understand the practical importance and potential uses of the Guidelines. During these activities, we identified areas that need to be reviewed and strengthened in the Guidelines.
In the attached submission we propose that Guidelines should be strengthened in three key areas:
- Recognition of the right to freedom of association (the right to freely organize)
- Fully realizing the rights and role of women fishers and fish workers
- More effective measures for the elimination of child labour
In addition there are brief comments and observations on three additional topic
- Enhancing the response to climate change
- A rights-based approach to health and safety
- Tackling the impact of large-scale commercial fishing
博士 Muhammad Hidayat Greenfield