What can be done to stop human trafficking?

Police in Xieng Khuang province have arrested a couple who tricked girls into prostitution and put them to work in bars and other entertainment venues. Gangs are using various ways to tempt girls and children into nefarious forms of work and false marriage, which means everyone should be on their guard against such practices. Vientiane Times sought opinions about this disturbing trend.

Ms Choun Thaisouliyong, a resident of Luang Prabang province: I think this is something that needs to be addressed urgently because it’s a terrible problem, particularly for families and young women. This is dreadful and we should stop it, because this is not just about human trafficking but may also lead to conflicts within families, drug addiction, and other crimes. I urge the authorities to crack down on those responsible and monitor this issue closely. As we know, women are always at risk of becoming victims of human trafficking, prostitution rings and violence. So everyone, particularly young women, should be aware of this problem and take steps to protect themselves. Every family should be careful and protect their daughters.
Mr Phoutsavanh, a resident of Xaythany district, Vientiane: It should stop as soon as possible because some places have become the favourite haunts of drug addicts and gamblers. I think it’s very dangerous for women, especially those who aren’t well educated and don’t know about the risk of being cheated by those involved in prostitution. Of course, there are some people who like to do such things because it’s an easy way to make a lot of money. Those who are poor, have very little money and are uneducated will sometimes accept this kind of money and force their daughters into this work. This isn’t a good thing and we should help each other to prevent it. More information about this should be given to families and parents in rural areas to ensure they are more aware of the dangers.
 
Ms Bounmy Xaiyasith, a resident of Naxaithong district, Vientiane: I have heard the news regarding this problem and I think it’s good that the authorities are trying to put a stop to such practices. I think they should run a publicity campaign to inform people about the law in relation to human trafficking and do more to help victims. They are already raising awareness about the dangers of human trafficking and the possibility of women being forced to marry and settle in another country to work. Officials should do more to prevent the trafficking of women in border areas. They should devise a sound plan to address the problem of sex services in hotels, guesthouses, massage shops, coffee shops and karaoke bars to stamp out prostitution. 

Ms Noy Phetmixay, an employee in Sikhottabong district, Vientiane: I would like to give a million thanks to the authorities for cracking down on prostitution rings because they are the cause of many problems, including human trafficking and the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. These rings create unrest and the authorities should mete out harsh punishments to deter people from engaging in this criminal activity. People in rural and remote areas aren’t well educated and are always at risk of harm, especially when offered large sums of money. Human trafficking can happen anywhere and at any time. Women may be cheated and sold, or become victims of violence. The media and people in urban areas should help them by making sure they are well informed about the ways in which they can be deceived, and the awful consequences. We should be suspicious of offers made by strangers and not readily believe what they say or let anyone, particularly young women, be tempted by their offers.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update August 26, 2022)