Bangkok: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised concerns regarding Thai workers traveling to Sweden and Finland for the 2025 wild fruit picking season. In an urgent communication, the NHRC Chairman has reached out to the Minister of Labor, emphasizing the need for protective measures against potential rights violations for these seasonal workers.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wasan Phaileekli, a member of the NHRC, disclosed that the commission's chairman sent a letter on June 25 to the Minister of Labor. The letter highlighted worries stemming from the recent changes in employment practices for Thai workers heading to Sweden and Finland. Previously, employers in Thailand were responsible for obtaining permissions and signing employment contracts locally before workers departed. However, the new practice allows workers to arrange their travel and contracts directly with employers overseas, with workers being classified as seasonal workers. This change means these workers are no longer protected by Thai labor laws, leaving them vulnerable under foreign regulations.
The NHRC's concerns are heightened by the language barriers, visa application complexities, and unfamiliarity with foreign employment regulations that Thai workers face. Many rely on coordinating companies in Thailand, which have been known to engage in fraudulent activities, such as charging exorbitant fees without transparency and providing substandard living conditions, further impacting the workers' earnings and welfare.
To address these issues, the NHRC recommends that the Ministry of Labor review and certify employment contracts via Thai embassies in Sweden and Finland. The contracts should include detailed conditions such as contract duration, work schedules, accommodation, transportation, medical care, and financial responsibilities for both employers and employees. The contracts must also outline procedures for resolving disputes, with the Ministry of Labor maintaining records of these agreements.
Furthermore, the NHRC insists that coordinating companies clearly specify all charges upfront. They also suggest organizing public forums in provinces where workers are recruited to increase awareness and understanding of the conditions in Sweden and Finland.
The NHRC calls for collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to verify the legitimacy of employer companies in Sweden and Finland and to ensure compliance with employment contracts. It is crucial to provide legal support for Thai workers in case of disputes or legal issues.
For future seasons, the NHRC urges the Ministry of Labor and related agencies to develop a proactive action plan, involving labor representatives and networks, to effectively address and mitigate human rights violations against Thai workers abroad.