The General Agricultural Workers’ Union of Ghana has called on government and industry players to urgently improve working conditions and protect human rights in the fisheries sector, warning that sustainability cannot be achieved if fishers are left unsafe and unprotected.
In a statement issued in Accra on January 14, 2026, the union said fisheries remain vital to Ghana’s economy, food security and jobs, especially for coastal and inland communities, yet the people who work in the sector continue to face serious risks and exploitation.
GAWU said overfishing, illegal and unreported fishing, climate change and unsafe working conditions are threatening both fish stocks and the livelihoods of thousands of fishers. According to the union, these challenges demand stronger enforcement of labour standards alongside environmental protection.
The union urged authorities to strictly apply the International Labour Organization’s Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work across the fisheries value chain. These include freedom of association, the elimination of forced labour, the abolition of child labour and the elimination of discrimination at work.
GAWU stressed that protecting fish stocks without protecting fishers weakens livelihoods and undermines long term sustainability. It called for a people centred approach that balances environmental protection with economic development and social inclusion.
The union also appealed to government agencies, industry operators and development partners to strengthen enforcement, improve safety at sea and onshore, and ensure fairness and dignity for all workers in the sector.
GAWU further encouraged fishers in both the formal and informal economy to organise and strengthen their collective voice through unionisation, saying strong worker organisation is essential for defending rights, improving livelihoods and promoting accountability.
The union reaffirmed its commitment to a sustainable and equitable blue economy that secures livelihoods, promotes dignity at work and ensures Ghana’s fisheries continue to support present and future generations.
