Addressing human rights and social responsibility in Fishery Improvement Projects (FIPs) is crucial for sustainable fisheries. Historically, the FIP model focused on environmental impacts, often overlooking social issues. In BioMar we are committed to integrating social responsibility into FIPs, ensuring that the well-being of workers in the fishing industry is prioritized.
New Human Rights and Social Responsibility Policy
FishChoice, which manages the FIP progress reporting platform fisheryprogress.org, has introduced a Human Rights and Social Responsibility Policy (HRSR). This policy mandates that new FIPs reporting on the platform must conduct risk assessments to address forced labor, child labor, and human trafficking risks. The policy aims to enhance transparency and ensure that social risks are identified and mitigated.
Key Components of HRSR
Core Requirements:
FIPs must have a public Policy Statement on Human Rights and Social Responsibility.
Information about vessels and fishers involved must be provided to improve visibility and ensure fishers are aware of their rights.
Evidence of communication efforts with fishers must be shown.
A self-evaluation to determine risks of forced labor and human trafficking is required.
Risk Assessment and Social Workplan:
FIPs in high-risk contexts must undertake a risk assessment and develop a social workplan.
Criteria for deeper assessments include transshipment at sea, long fishing trips, a significant migrant workforce, or recent reports of labor abuses.
Annual assessments are required for high-risk indicators, with a full assessment every three years.
Voluntary Reporting:
- The HRSR Policy encourages sharing actions and progress, demonstrating leadership in addressing human rights and social issues within fisheries.
BioMar’s Commitment
BioMar expects all suppliers to comply with its Responsible Sourcing Policy, rejecting all forms of human rights abuses. Addressing social and human rights issues requires systemic change and collaboration across multiple stakeholders. By understanding the social context and listening to workers, BioMar aims to tackle the root causes of these issues.
Read the full story and read more about BioMar's sustainability initiatives in our 2023 Sustainability Report.
