The UK-based nonprofit organization Environmental Justice
Foundation (EJF) has long been dedicated to investigating human
trafficking in distant water fisheries and addressing IUU fishing. In 2021,
EJF reviewed the Fisheries Agency's methods, content, and techniques for
interviewing fishers and released a report with recommendations for
improvement. The report emphasized that interviews play a crucial role in
combating forced labor and human trafficking. It advocated for a victimcentered interview approach, highlighting that victims of trafficking or
forced labor often live in fear. Thus, creating a safe, private, and
comfortable interview environment is essential to building trust and
encouraging interviewees to share their genuine experiences. For instance,
in the case of fishers, interviews should take place far from the vessel, away
from other crew members and company representatives. EJF stressed that
accurate and critical information can be obtained only through careful and
well-organized interviews, enabling effective action against forced labor.
The Ministry of the Interior's National Immigration Agency hosted the
“2024 International Workshop on Strategies for Combating Human
Trafficking,” inviting experts from various countries to share practical
experiences. Many speakers repeatedly emphasized the victim-centered
approach. Unlike traditional anti-trafficking efforts, which often focused
on perpetrators and prioritized crime suppression, recent strategies have
shifted to place greater emphasis on victim care. This shift aims to more
comprehensively achieve the goals of protection and prevention outlined
in anti-human trafficking strategies.
Regarding the transparency of information on penalties, OMFR
Secretary-General Huang Yu-chung suggested during the forum that
penalties and subsequent follow-ups could be disclosed similarly to the
penalties for illegal fishing practices. The Act for Distant Water Fisheries
provides explicit legal authorization for publishing inspection outcomes or
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