Social Dialogue

Social dialogue is structured discussions between organisations representing workers and employers, known as social partners. The EU supports social dialogue at the European level, and the ETF Fisheries Section is a recognised social partner for the fisheries sector.

The Sectoral Social Dialogue Committee for Sea Fisheries (SSDC for Sea Fisheries) has existed in its current form since 1999. It comprises ETF and the employers’ organisation, Europêche, and Copa-Cogeca. The Social Partners have concluded several joint statements and resolutions on improving working conditions in the sector. The SSDC also participates in consultations on legislative proposals concerning the social aspects of fisheries.

The Social Partners have also run multiple projects (co-funded by the European Commission) which aimed to improve working and living conditions onboard fishing vessels or to promote the social dimension of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

The SSDC for Sea Fisheries meets in Brussels three times per year.