Human rights and labour abuses are rampant in the global fishing industry. Testimonial videos recently released by Greenpeace shine a light on some of the awful working conditions found on tuna fishing boats. In the worst-case scenarios, investigations reveal forced labour at sea.
Many of Canada’s canned tuna brands are supplied by Thai Union, the world’s biggest tuna company, which is linked to destructive fishing methods known to kill tonnes of marine life. Now, investigations reveal that the company is also linked to human rights and labour abuses in some of its seafood supply chains. The company is unable to prove that its tuna supply chains are free from these horrendous practices.
On tuna vessels, human and labour abuse, and depletion and destruction of our oceans go hand in hand. Fishermen on tuna longliners are rarely paid a living wage for gruelling work. Many work 20-hour days for months on end, and are paid less than Canada’s minimum wage. Often fishermen catch sharks and sell for their fins as a supplement to their wages, fuelling the destructive practice of shark finning.
These workers deserve fair and ethical treatment. Thai Union must act now to ensure its tuna is ocean-friendly and socially responsible.
Thai Union has a key role to play in stopping the destruction and abuse hidden behind brightly labelled tuna products found on supermarket shelves around the world.
Tell Thai Union that you want tuna that doesn't harm our oceans or workers.
