Who to call

Fishers · Know your rights

If something is wrong on board or in port, these are places to start.

What you should get

• Your national labour ministry or department — see 'Find help near you' for verified contacts.
• A maritime or fishers' union. The ITF Seafarers union lookup lists affiliated unions by country, including in the port where your vessel calls.
• In Fiji: the Fiji Trades Union Congress (+679 331 5377), and PIoWR (piowr.org/contact) if you want to talk about joining the FMU Fishers Branch, which is being established.

Check for

• Save at least two numbers in your phone before you sail
• Give your family the vessel name and the owner's contact details

What you can do

• If someone's life is in danger, contact the skipper, the coast guard or local emergency services first.

Sources: PIoWR Find help directory · ITF Seafarers union lookup · FTUC contact page

This card is general information, not legal advice. Laws differ by country and by the vessel's flag. Information checked 2 October 2026. For help, see piowr.org/fishers and piowr.org/tools/find-help.

Pacific Institute of Workplace Relations · Fair Conditions At Work · piowr.org