The report Falling through the net: A survey of basic labour rights among migrants working in Thailand’s fishing sector was made by the Civil Society Organisations Coalition for Ethical and Sustainable Seafood, which the Freedom Fund supports. This document exposes severe labour abuses in the Thai fishing industry, with 57% of workers facing significant mistreatment while only 26% seek help. Key issues include inadequate rest, poor living conditions, lack of contracts, and irregular wages leading to debt bondage.
Policy recommendations urge the Royal Thai Government to establish comprehensive vessel inspections, improve grievance mechanisms, and ensure transparent e-payment systems. Labour laws should be updated to align with international standards, enhancing workers’ rights awareness and training. Respecting workers’ rights to association and collective bargaining, and ratifying relevant International Labour Organisation conventions are also crucial. International buyers and the seafood industry are encouraged to support trade union participation, advocate for stronger labour rights, and issue public statements promoting labour rights enforcement. Seafood buyers and retailers should commit to fair wages, transparent payments, and responsible recruitment, ensuring workers’ access to social protections and sustainable employment practices.
Click here or on the image below to access the report.
