Seafarers Face Modern Slavery at Sea

A recent debate at the European Parliament's Committee on Fisheries exposed severe working conditions for seafarers. Survivors recounted experiences akin to 'modern slavery,' detailing shifts of 16 to 20 hours daily, and at times, 24-hour work periods with insufficient rest. Concerns were raised about the availability of clean drinking water and adequate safety equipment, with one sailor describing consuming filtered seawater due to poor food and water conditions.

International organizations, trade union representatives, and sector participants convened to advocate for enhanced guarantees for those in the fishing industry. Research presented indicated that a significant majority of interviewed fishers faced wage non-payment and less favorable contract modifications. The discussion emphasized the necessity of moving beyond formal compliance to ensure effective protection of labor rights, including rigorous checks on contracts and wages, and accountability for recruitment agencies.

Calls were made for stricter enforcement of labor standards, with reference to the International Labour Organization's Work in Fishing Convention. The European Union is implementing a regulation on forced labor, with market access conditional on adherence to these standards. The aim is to ensure European consumers are not unknowingly purchasing fish caught through exploitation and forced labor.