Cruelty to Human and Nonhuman Animals in the Wild-Caught Fishing Industry

Abstract

The welfare of animals killed for our consumption, and the treatment of agricultural workers involved in this industry, are pressing ethical issues not sufficiently discussed in the context of the fishing industry. While concerns about the welfare of terrestrial farmed animals gain some prominence in discussions about sustainability and food policy, concern for the welfare of fish killed for food lags far behind. This lack of concern for their welfare is in spite of considerable scientific evidence showing that fish experience pain, fear, and suffering. The fishing industry also has grave impacts on humans, which include health and safety issues, labor law violations, and even human rights abuses such as human trafficking, child labor, and slavery. Incorporating these less publicized concerns into our conversations about fishing is necessary in order to improve law, policy, and consumer awareness in this area.

Keywords: Animal Welfare, Fishing, Fishing Industry, Labor Rights