June 17, 2013 — The next time you enjoy a shrimp, will you be wondering whether it was produced by child or slave labor? This could depend upon what happens in the mainstream media in the near future with the release of the Environmental Justice Foundation’s report on human trafficking in Thailand’s seafood industry. The consumer backlash could be similar to that experienced by Gap, Nike, Walmart and other companies accused of producing goods made overseas by people who toiled in sweatshop conditions or were the victims of other labor abuses.
Workers’ rights have been increasingly discussed as seafood companies incorporate social responsibility into sustainable seafood sourcing policies. SeaFood Business Assistant Editor Melissa Wood tackled the topic in the July Top Story that will be available soon. Her research shows that while some work has been done on the issue, a lot remains to be addressed.
Some retail and restaurant companies have recently pushed the topic to the forefront in review of their sustainability programs. But for the companies that remain on the fence regarding their individual responsibility, the EJF report may be the motivation needed to make human rights a priority.
Read the full article at SeafoodSource.com