IUF and BKMU Condemn Gov’t’s Reintroduction of Commercial Longline Fishing

The International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’ Associations (IUF) and the Bodu Kanneli Masveringe Union (BKMU) have condemned the Maldives government’s decision to reintroduce commercial longline fishing. 

In a joint statement, they warned of severe social, environmental, and economic repercussions, including threats to the livelihoods of 17,000 local fishermen and a community of 50,000 to 60,000 people.

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The unions argue that this decision will devastate ocean ecosystems and violate human rights, particularly the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment. They emphasise that sustainable fishing practices, such as handline fishing used by BKMU members, have helped replenish tuna stocks in the Indian Ocean. The UN Special Rapporteur praised these practices during a recent visit to the Maldives.

The reintroduction of longline fishing threatens more than ten endangered species, including corals, turtles, sharks, rays, and birds, and could lead to overfishing and ecosystem damage. Economically, it risks replacing local fishermen with fleets operated by large tuna buyers and foreign companies, undermining the livelihoods and food security of local communities.

The unions call on the Maldives Government to reverse the decision, protect sustainable fishing practices, and engage in effective consultations with the union to safeguard the rights and incomes of local fishers. 

Environmental organisation Bluepeace also expressed concern, noting the threat to marine biodiversity and traditional fishing livelihoods.