LEGAL MEASURES TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES : A CASE STUDY OF EASTERN COASTAL FISHERIES

Abstract

This research aims 1) to investigate the impacts on Thailand’s fisheries caused by the law enforcement under Illegal Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUU Fishing), and 2) to develop the legal measures to promote sustainable fisheries in Thailand. A qualitative research methodology based on a interdisciplinary research approach was used in this study. The documentary research study and fieldwork in-depth interviews with the key informants were used as the data collection techniques. Key informants include fisheries experts, government officials, executives of local government organizations, provincial fisheries committee members and fishermen in the area.

            The results of the research found that:

1) the impacts of the enforcement of Royal Ordinance on Fisheries B.E. 2558 (2015) and its amendments has caused eastern coastal fisheries to face obstacles in law enforcement operations due to unclear provisions of the laws. Other difficulties include some fishing regulations that do not correspond to the fishermen’s way of life, no advance notice provided for preparation, no financial aid based on the compensation concept in case of being adversely affected by an act of government, , and 2) the main goal of legal measures development for sustainable development in Thailand’s fisheries should focus on promoting effective fisheries in Thailand, having sustainable economic growth and society, appropriately sustaining natural aquatic resources and environment, preventing intentionally wrongful fisheries, facilitating and creating convenience to fishermen, providing career protection, receiving compensation in case of being adversely affected by an act of government, conforming Thailand’s fisheries with international fisheries obligations and the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand consisting of fisheries management, fishery activities within Thailand’s territorial seas and Exclusive Economic Zone waters, preventive measures and management, controlling monitoring investigating and conducting inspections of authorities, administrative measures, and penalties.