This study examines incentive policies and human rights (HAM) in ASEAN fisheries supply chains, highlighting the complexities between increasing fisheries production and protecting human rights. With ASEAN as a major player in fish production and exports, the growth of the industry poses significant challenges to sustainability and human rights. Government incentive policies in exporting countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand have played a significant role in the expansion of the fisheries industry, but an excessive focus on increasing capacity without considering sustainability can exacerbate problems such as overfishing, forced labor, and inhumane working conditions.
This study emphasizes the importance of ratifying and implementing international conventions on human rights to strengthen protection in the fisheries sector. Although Thailand has made progress with a national action plan on business and human rights, there is still a lack of specific policies in other ASEAN countries. Using a qualitative approach, this study explores the impact of incentive policies on human rights, including aspects of forced labor and exploitative working conditions.
The study findings demonstrate the urgent need to integrate human rights aspects into the formulation and implementation of incentive policies. The study also encourages companies to implement human rights due diligence in the supply chain and strengthen the regulatory framework. Ratification of international conventions on human rights is identified as a key step to ensure that incentive policies not only support economic growth but also protect workers and communities from exploitation. By focusing on human rights and sustainability, ASEAN can promote a fair and responsible fisheries industry that respects human rights and preserves marine ecosystems.
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