The Imposition and Enforcement of International Labour Standards on Fishing Vessels in South East Asia: Challenges and Potential Solutions

Abstract

This paper is made up of four parts. Consideration is given to the labour conditions that exist aboard fishing vessels in the region of South East Asia, and in particular in the fishing industry of Thailand. Secondly, international labour standards applicable to the South East Asia fisheries context are identified and discussed. Thirdly, challenges to the implementation of these standards at a multilateral, regional and domestic level are discussed, using Thailand as a case study at a domestic level. Finally, potential means of remedying such challenges, including unilateral action by states or non-state actors are considered. This paper concludes that both regional agreements, and unilateral actions by states, which allow for the implementation of economic sanctions if international labour standards are violated, may effectively encourage states in South East Asia to implement international labour standards in a meaningful fashion.