Summary
Despite increasing pressure to protect the rights of the fishing crew, the ratification of the international Work in Fishing Convention remains low. In light of increasing market demand for social accountability and in the absence of formal governance, fishing companies are looking towards private sector accountability certification. However, doubts have been raised regarding the effectiveness of private certification processes for ensuring the welfare of fishing crew. This paper aims to strengthen academic consideration of social accountability certifications as a tool for improving fishing crew welfare. We have assessed the third-party audit reports of the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Fishing Industry Association (FIA) tuna sector against the Fairness, Integrity, Safety, and Health (FISH) standard. The results showed that non-conformities can be grouped into five themes, with the majority reflecting either a lack of relevant policies and procedures or the lack of communication between employer and crew. Although this paper is based on a case study, essential insights can be drawn for other fishing companies that seek to strengthen their protections for crew welfare. Overall, third-party certifications can make an important contribution to strengthening fishing crew welfare; however, they cannot replace strong governance. Ultimately, broad ratification and implementation of the international convention remain key to protecting the human rights of fishing crew.