Thailand's work and health transition

Abstract

Thailand has experienced a rapid economic transition from agriculture to manufacturing and services, and to more formal employment. Its labour market regulation and worker representation, however, are much weaker than they are in developed countries, which underwent these transitions more slowly and sequentially, decades earlier. The authors examine the strengthening of Thailand's policy and legislation on occupational safety and health in response to international standards, a new democratic Constitution, fear of foreign trade embargoes, and fatal workplace disasters. In concluding, they identify key challenges remaining for policy-makers, including enforcement of legislation and measurement of new mental and physical health effects.