The Issara Institute‘s report Eliminating human trafficking from the Thai Fishing Industry: Perspectives of Thai Commercial Vessel Owners was supported by Humanity United and the Freedom Fund. The report exposes significant human trafficking and forced labour issues in the Thai fishing industry, particularly among migrant workers from Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. Workers often endure abusive conditions, including physical violence, excessive hours, inadequate pay, and confiscation of identification documents. Debt bondage is prevalent, as many workers incur substantial debt to secure jobs, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. Despite recent labour reforms, enforcement is inconsistent and lacks comprehensive monitoring.
The report recommends enhanced cooperation between government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector, along with stronger enforcement of labour laws and better protection. It also calls for more rigorous inspection and certification processes for fishing vessels to ensure compliance with labour standards. It also emphasizes the need for systemic changes to address these issues effectively and improve labour conditions in the Thai fishing industry.
Click here or on the image below to access the report.
