The Framework of Action on Labour Conditions in fisheries sector of Thailand
1. Fundamental Labour Rights and Labour Migration Policy
A. Issues raised during the session:
• Freedom of association and collective bargaining rights for all workers, including migrant workers
• Representation and participation of workers at the level of the workplace.
• Coherent long-term labour migration policy, including review of MOUs on employment cooperation with neighboring countries, and regularizing the status of irregular migrants in the country
• Clear legislation on the regulation of recruitment agencies and brokers, including licensing and oversight, standard fees.
• Elimination of sub-contracting practices that do not adhere to labour laws, and that dilute employers responsibilities
• Elimination of forced labour practices that coerce or deceive workers into jobs which they cannot leave
• Flexibility and clarity on migrant workers ability to change employer
• Migrants’ access to complaints mechanisms, including on violations related to recruitment, labour rights and social security access
• Social protection coverage to migrant workers and their family members, including those in informal sectors
• Extension of child care facilities
• Communication channels that enable buyers to receive up to date information about the status of labour standard implementation, including through GLP or other ILO channels
• Wages in fisheries industry and minimum wage are not sufficient to meet basic needs for workers
• Retention of worker documents, and workers burden to purchase work and protective equipment