As i advance on my FAO assignment*, just found this little FAO jewel initially written for aquaculture (Improving governance of aquaculture employment – A global assessment) but totally applicable for fisheries
prawn farmer in northern Peru
For the governance of aquaculture (and fisheries) labour, four general principles are important. They are criteria against which institutional roles and policies of the sector should be judged for their impact on sustainability. The four principles are: accountability; effectiveness and efficiency; equity; and predictability.
Accountability: implies greater openness so that enterprises and officials are answerable for their actions. Accountability would be reflected in monitoring and enforcement of labour legislation, with appropriate penalties for violations.
Effectiveness and efficiency: reflect the quality of administration and would require that labour regulations are cost-effective and enforceable. Too often, regulations are imposed without sufficient consideration given to efficiency or capacity to enforce.
Equity: refers to intergenerational but also intragenerational equity. Intragenerational equity can be included in procedures for hiring, for remuneration, and gender fairness.
Predictability: refers to the fair and consistent application of laws and regulations. It also requires transparency with an open, clear decision-making process.
Implementation of these principles in labour practices enhances public acceptance of aquaculture (and fisheries)
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*I’m working on a draft FAO Guidance on Social Responsibility in Fish and Fish Products Value Chains. This is one the hardest assignment I had… so thankful to my college and co-author Katrina Nakamura for her guidance (and patience) as I navigate trough these new waters