In a landmark decision aimed at bolstering the rights and welfare of one of the nation’s most vital economic sectors, the Cabinet of Ministers in Sri Lanka has formally granted approval for the ratification of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Work in Fishing Convention, 2007 (No. 188). This pivotal legislative step is designed to introduce internationally recognised labour standards to the domestic fishing industry, ensuring that more than 315,000 members of the fishing community are provided with essential protections regarding their working conditions, occupational safety, and long-term job security.
The announcement was made by the Cabinet Spokesperson, Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, during a detailed briefing on the latest government decisions. This move signifies a departure from the traditional, often unregulated practices that have historically characterised the sector, moving instead towards a framework that prioritises the human rights and physical well-being of those who operate in some of the most hazardous environments on the planet.
Understanding the ILO Work in Fishing Convention (C188)
The ILO Work in Fishing Convention (C188) was originally adopted in 2007 to provide a comprehensive global standard for decent work in the fishing sector. For a maritime nation like Sri Lanka, where the fishing industry serves as a cornerstone of coastal economies and food security, the alignment with such international treaties is instrumental in modernising the industry.
Under the provisions of the Convention, several key areas of maritime labour are addressed:
- Minimum Requirements for Work: The Convention establishes a clear minimum age for work on board fishing vessels, providing special protection for younger workers to prevent exploitation and hazardous labour.
- Medical Care and Certification: Fishers will now have a formalised right to regular medical examinations and access to medical care, ensuring that health issues are identified and treated promptly.
- Work Agreements: To combat the prevalence of informal and often precarious employment, the Convention mandates written work agreements. These documents provide clarity on terms of service, remuneration, and the rights of the employee.
- Occupational Safety and Health (OSH): Detailed measures are introduced to reduce the incidence of work-related accidents and diseases, which are disproportionately high in the fishing industry.
A Significant Step for 315,000 Fisherfolk
The fishing community in Sri Lanka is vast, comprising over 315,000 individuals who contribute significantly to the national GDP. Historically, however, these workers have been replete with challenges, ranging from a lack of formal social security to inadequate living conditions on board vessels. By approving the ratification of C188, the Cabinet has acknowledged that the industry must evolve beyond its current basic operational level.
The implementation of these standards is expected to provide a robust safety net for fishers. This includes guaranteed rest periods, which are vital for maintaining the health and safety of crews during long expeditions. Furthermore, the Convention grants fishers the right to repatriation in specific circumstances, such as injury or the conclusion of a long term of service, ensuring they are not left stranded in foreign ports or distant waters.
Access to social security schemes is another cornerstone of this approval. By ensuring that fishers are protected under social security on conditions no less favourable than other classes of workers, the government aims to provide a sense of stability and dignity to a profession that is often viewed as volatile and high-risk.
Legislative Context and Broader Cabinet Decisions
The decision to ratify the ILO Fishing Convention was part of a broader suite of announcements made during the Tuesday briefing. The Cabinet, led by the President and various ministers, including Justice Minister Harsha Nanayakkara and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, addressed several key areas of national interest.
Among these decisions was the approval of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the National Water Supply and Drainage Board and Australia’s RMIT University. This partnership is expected to strengthen research and technological expertise in water security, reflecting a commitment to infrastructure development that mirrors the advancements sought in the labour sector. Additionally, the Cabinet green-lit the procurement of 600 air-conditioned deluxe buses for the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB), a move aligned with the Road Safety Plan 2025–2026.
While these various projects highlight a multi-faceted approach to national development, the ratification of the ILO Convention stands out as a profound commitment to the social consciousness and rights of the individual worker. It serves as an antithesis to the historical neglect that many primary sector workers have faced, promising a future where the fishing community is integrated into the formal economy with the full protection of the law.
The Role of the Global Sri Lankan Community
As eLanka continues to serve as the primary bridge for Sri Lankans living in Australia, the UK, Canada, and beyond, the reporting of such positive developments is essential. The Global Sri Lankan community often retains deep ties to the coastal regions of the motherland, and the welfare of the fishing community is a matter of both national and personal interest to many.
Supporting these advancements through awareness and professional collaboration is a key part of eLanka’s mission. Whether through our Business Directory or our dedicated news coverage, we aim to highlight the ongoing efforts to make Sri Lanka a safer and more prosperous home for all its citizens.
Looking Ahead: Implementation and Impact
While the Cabinet approval is a monumental first step, the subsequent phase will involve the drafting of regulations and the institutional strengthening required to enforce these new standards. The Ministry of Labour and the Department of Fisheries will be instrumental in ensuring that the transition from traditional practices to international standards is handled with care and efficiency.
The long-term benefits of this decision are manifold. Improved working conditions are likely to attract a new generation of workers to the industry, while enhanced safety protocols will lead to a reduction in maritime accidents. By elevating the status of the fishing profession, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a responsible and progressive maritime nation on the global stage.
For the 315,000 fisherfolk and their families, this announcement is more than just a legislative formality; it is a promise of a safer, more secure, and more dignified livelihood. At eLanka, we remain committed to sharing these stories of progress and celebrating the milestones that bring our global community together in support of a better Sri Lanka.
Source: Ada Derana First at 9 broadcast, 21 July 2026 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=676Pr2en4XI
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