Indonesian coastal women voiced strong opposition to bottom trawling at a side event hosted by the Transform Bottom Trawling (TBT) Coalition during the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) 2025 in Nice, France on June 9-13, 2025. 

They cited that the destructive fishing practice is not only damaging marine ecosystems but also deepening social and economic injustice in coastal communities.

“Trawling captures everything − from juvenile to adult fish − leaving no room for regeneration. It’s not just an environmental issue, it’s a social one,” Nilawati, Chairperson of the Medan City Chapter of the Indonesian Coastal Women’s Union (KPPI), said in a media statement as quoted on Thursday June 12, 2025.

She emphasized that bottom trawling is on the rise in Sumatra, with vessels ranging from 10 to 30 gross tonnage (GT) operating in traditional fishing zones.

“Conflicts are escalating between traditional fishers and trawl operators. Fishing gear from small-scale fishers is often damaged or lost when trawlers invade local waters,” she added.

Nilawati highlighted the economic toll: fish, shrimp, and shellfish − once abundant − are now increasingly scarce. “Our livelihoods are collapsing. Fuel and supplies are expensive, but the catch no longer makes up for the cost. Small fishers are returning home with losses,” she said.

Hasmia, Deputy Secretary-General of the Indonesian Traditional Fisherfolk Union (KNTI), stressed that the impact of trawling disproportionately burdens coastal women.

“When fishing yields drop, household income declines. Since women manage the family’s finances, they are the first to feel the pressure,” she said.

Faced with economic hardship, many coastal women take on extra work − from shell peeling and street vending to domestic labor − and in some cases, resort to debt.

“This adds a double burden. Women still carry out domestic duties while working to support their families,” Hasmia said, while noting that financial stress can even lead to domestic violence.

Women directly involved in the marine sector are also at risk of losing their livelihoods due to ecosystem degradation. Hasmia urged greater inclusion of coastal women in decision-making processes.

“Their voices must be heard in shaping policies that affect their lives,” she said.

She expressed hope that the third UNOC will mark a turning point for greater participation of fisherwomen in international forums.

“With active involvement, our voices grow stronger. We can pressure governments to protect fisherwomen from unjust practices like trawling,” she concluded.