On November 24th, Mr. Padermchai Sasomsap, the Minister of Labour convened a meeting with key fisheries industry associations in order to promote action for protection against unacceptable forms of work such as child labour, forced labour and generally to promote better working conditions in the industry. The industry was led in the signing of commitment by Thai Frozen Food Association (TFFA), Thai Food Processors Association (TFPA) and National Fisheries Association of Thailand (NFAT). Other signatories representing different aspect of the fisheries industry were: Thai Shrimp Association, The Thai Fishmeal Producers Association, Thai Overseas Fisheries Association and Primary Processing Marine Club.

The declaration that was signed by the association heads puts forwards an industry commitment to combat child labour and forced labour and to abide by requirements under the labour law. It also more broadly recognizes the benefits that Thai economy derives from migrant labour and calls for promotion of decent work for all. The commitment especially mentions support to labour protection efforts, improvement of working conditions, employment creation, and wage payments according to the law. Mr. Pakorn Amornchewin, Director General of Department of Labour Protection and Welfare (DLPW) signed the commitment document on behalf of the Ministry of Labour.

During the signing ceremony the industry was reminded about the existing labour laws concerning child labour, forced labour and working conditions. The recently signed national notification for eliminating the worst form of child labours (established November 8th, 2012), that provides guidance concerning hazardous child labour in Thailand was promoted and made available. The notification was developed through cooperation between ILO-IPEC, Employer’s Organisation, Trade Unions and the NGO community.

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ILO-IPEC Thailand

The ILO-IPEC project (2010-2014) in Thailand aims to address child labour and forced labour in shrimp and seafood processing areas and to help create an industry that is free of child labour and forced labour and offers decent working conditions and opportunities to Thai and migrant workers. Special attention is given to the situation of Thai and migrant children at risk of entering or/and involved in hazardous child labour. The ILO-IPEC programme is financed by the US Department of Labour.