Access to Informal Labour Rights and Human Rights Protection for Workers: A Case Study of Service Sector Workers in Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

This research article aimed to study 1) analyze the situation regarding access to labour rights and human rights, including the protection of informal workers in Khon Kaen Province; 2) study the problems and obstacles that informal workers face in accessing information and exercising their labour rights under national laws and international standards; and 3) propose appropriate approaches to promote access to labour rights and protection in accordance with human rights principles, suitable for the context of informal workers in Khon Kaen Province. This qualitative research collected data from seven key informants selected through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using content analysis. The research findings revealed that: 1) informants had a basic understanding and awareness of labour rights; 2) problems and obstacles to accessing information and legal protection of labour rights included: 2.1) a lack of in-depth understanding of legal labour rights; 2.2) the majority of informal workers had never sought assistance from government agencies or organizations, relying instead on information gathered from social media; 2.3) discrimination in the workplace; and 2.4) insufficient access to information and labour protection. 3) Recommendations for promoting access to informal labour rights and protection based on human rights principles included: 3.1) the government should implement clear and easily accessible public awareness campaigns; 3.2) appropriate and fair wage standards should be established, and written employment contracts should be in place; and 3.3) complaint procedures should be streamlined, and stricter measures should be taken to penalize employers or business owners who exploit workers.