Important new research finds migrant fisher working conditions in Thailand do not adhere to ILO Convention 188 standards and violate international human rights. Notable violations include lack of health and safety protections, illegal payment structures, and improper employment contracts—all of which violate C188 requirements. The study finds that fishers tend not to approach public authorities to report violations due to fear, intimidation or a lack of trust. Recommendations to help minimize C188 violations include improving reporting mechanisms at the Port-In-Port-Out (PIPO) inspection point, taking immediate legal action against violators (sanctions), allowing migrant fishers to form their own union, reducing documentation and recruitment costs, and simplifying the immigration process.
Read the full article here: Examining Migrant Workers’ Rights in Fishing Industry of Thailand after Ratification of ILO C188: A Case Study of Burmese Migrant Workers in Ranong Province, Thailand