Fisherfolk

Abstract

Small fisherfolk have endured displacements, depletions, and pollution from TNCs and their Global Establishment allies. Destruction of aquaprotein needed by families of small fisherfolk is a critical problem in the region. In Southeast Asia, fish are a traditional source of food. Annual consumption of fish per capita is 42 per cent higher than the world average. Fish are the single most important source of animal protein for the region’s people. One-half or more of the total intake of animal protein by the average Southeast Asian comes from fish (Tangsubkul and Lai 1983:868). In Malaysia, 80 per cent of the population depends on fish as their major source of protein (‘Who Owns the Seas?’ 1981:13–16). To Asian coastal populations, fish are the major source of subsistence and income. Fish are cheaper than meat for almost all Asians (Ibon Research 1981a:2–5). As a result of growing TNC domination of Asia’s waters, however, small fisherfolk have experienced a deterioration in their ability to maintain a livelihood (Kent 1981; ‘Japanese Industry’ 1982).

There is rice in the fields and fish in the water.

(Thai proverb)

From coast to offshore; from offshore to high seas.

(Japanese government slogan)