The current Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) focuses on economic and environmental sustainability, leaving social sustainability aside. Such a key element of sustainability should not be ignored in a sector where work can be very dangerous and there is a clear need for social policies.
The future CFP should include social objectives, in parallel with economic and environmental objectives. It should identify health and safety needs and set a minimum level of training for all seafood workers.
Furthermore, access to the EU market of fish products that come from countries where workers’ abuses are identified shall be banned and consumer information on social standards should be made compulsory to make informed choices when buying fish.
More information on the need for social sustainability in fisheries can be found in the newly released social partners’ resolution. It’s available for download here and on your right-hand side.