Human Trafficking In Thailand Essay

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Human Trafficking in Thailand

Human trafficking can be defined as the illegal movement of people, typically for the purposes of forced labor or commercial sexual exploitation. Trafficking has become a global threat and is an injustice that affects millions of people every year, and in every continent in the world. According to the United Nations agency that deals with global labor issues ’21 million people are victims of human trafficking worldwide’, and within that 4.5 million are trafficked for the sole purpose of some sexual exploitation. The effects of this trafficking on the individuals can be catastrophic. Trafficking has a direct effect on the mental, and physical wellbeing of the victim. In the process of trafficking victims are often …show more content…

In 2014 Thailand was downgraded to the worst category and among the lowest ranking nations of human trafficking in the world, after failing to show an improvement to circumstances. Thailand as a nation is facing very specific concerns and the two most notable areas of concern are sex trafficking, and forced labor, especially in the fishing industry. The majority of Thai victims identified during 2013 were found in the country 's billion dollar sex industry, according to the State Department. The exact number of women and children exploited through prostitution in Thailand is unknown, but estimates from researchers and non-profit groups put the figure in the tens of thousands. Part of the problem is that Thailand is the world’s third largest exporter of seafood. Therefore, it is an avenue employers can use to exploit these victims to cheap labor. A survey conducted by the UN found that 6 out of 10 people who had been forced to work on Thai fishing boats admitted to witnessing a murder of another worker. In addition 17% of the fisherman say they are working against their will because of threats. These threats come in multiple forms, but predominately the threat of financial penalties, and violence that could result from them tying to leave the …show more content…

Firstly, in terms of their policy strategy the Thai Government has implemented a “Zero tolerance” policy with emphasis on more efficient legislative frameworks, eliminating legal loopholes, and greater coordination among concerned agencies. In addition this policy has involved amendments to Anti-Human Trafficking Act 2015, which has empowered authorities to immediately shut down work places or suspend operating licenses of factories where evidences of trafficking are found. This is a positive move which shows the government commitment to tackling this issue. In terms of Prosecution the government focuses on strong law enforcement and increasing efficiency in the criminal justice system. As of October 2015, a total number of 212 human trafficking cases are being investigated, with 450 suspects having been arrested and charged, and 702 trafficking victims having been identified. The Prime Minister has appointed an ad hoc committee to address current challenges in judicial proceedings with regard to human trafficking. Under protection, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Securities continues to help human trafficking victims’ recover by providing them with safe shelters while allowing them to work temporarily. They are also providing funding for traveling expenses should the victims

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