The Legal Problem Concerning the Protection of Human Rights for Worker in the Thai Fisheries

Abstract

Fishing is an occupation of significant importance to Thailand, as it is an industry that generates vast amounts of revenue for the country's economy. The working conditions in the fishing industry, however, differ from those in other industrial sectors, especially regarding the risks associated with working on deep-sea fishing vessels, where laborers often face long working hours. Additionally, these working conditions are vulnerable to human rights violations, including exploitation of workers, wage fraud, forced labor, and even human trafficking, a grave crime that poses a severe threat to humanity. The international community has recognized the importance of preventing and monitoring human trafficking. Thailand, which has been previously noted for the situation regarding labor on Thai fishing boats, has frequently reported cases of foreign workers being victims of forced labor and human trafficking. In response, the Thai government, along with related agencies, has undertaken various actions, both policy-wise and legally, resulting in the enactment of laws aimed at protecting the rights of fishing workers and preventing illegal forced labor practices in the industry. However, human rights violations in Thailand’s fishing sector remain prevalent. This highlights the need to study the issues surrounding the enforcement of human rights protection laws for fishing workers in Thailand. This research aims to raise awareness about human rights violations in Thailand's fishing industry and to promote understanding among the Thai people about the fundamental principles of human rights.
It stresses that all individuals, regardless of nationality, possess equal human dignity.