Bangkok:ASEAN has introduced two new guidelines aimed at improving work conditions within the fishing and informal sectors, which are typically challenging to regulate due to their vulnerability and inaccessibility. These guidelines were approved by ASEAN labour ministers during their 29th Meeting in August 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand, and are set to be noted at the 49th ASEAN Summit in Manila this week.

According to Association of SouthEast Asian Nation, the ASEAN Guidelines on Occupational Safety and Health in the Informal Sector and the ASEAN Guidelines on Strengthening Labour Inspection in the Fishing Sector were developed under the leadership of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) of the Philippines as part of its 2026 ASEAN Chairship's milestones. These initiatives represent a collective effort by ASEAN Member States to bolster regional cooperation to tackle persistent decent work deficits in these sectors.

The ASEAN Guidelines on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) in the Informal Sector advocate for a preventive and risk-based approach, highlighting the necessity of inclusive national policies, accessible OSH services, and effective labour inspections. They also stress the importance of social protection, worker participation, and collaboration among governments, employers, and community organizations in crafting practical solutions.

Conversely, the ASEAN Guidelines on Strengthening Labour Inspection in the Fishing Sector offer practical guidance to ASEAN Member States for enhancing their labour inspection frameworks. This includes defining competent authorities, planning risk-based inspections, and establishing complaint and reporting mechanisms. The guidelines also provide practical tools such as model work agreements for fishers, medical supply checklists, and indicators of forced labour.

Both sets of guidelines align with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Strategic Plan, aiming to promote decent work, safe workplaces, and robust institutional frameworks across the region. They also contribute to the implementation of the ASEAN Labour Ministers' Work Programme 2026-2030.