Current Social Issues in Southeast Asia:
Drugs, HIV/AIDS, Human Trafficking, Sex Tourism, Pedophiles, Child Labor, Cross Border Migration, Statelessness and Institutionalized Corruption

Drug use/trafficking, human trafficking, sex tourism, the prevalence of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases, child labor, statelessness and corruption at all governmental levels are interlocking social issues that can weaken the traditional fabric of society and prevent developing nations from concentrating their resources in positive and productive growth.  The impact of these issues on Asian society and economies, as well as individuals, cannot and should not be underestimated.

It is only with an objective study of the core nature of each issue that students, professionals and culturally sensitive travelers can understand these very complex problems. Special emphasis in this course is placed on the nuances associated with these social issues as they occur in Thailand. Actual case studies and practical exercises are used to demonstrate many aspects of these problems.

This overview provides information on current drug manufacturing, use and distribution. The student is also briefed on the most successful crop substitution program in the world, the infamous Thaksin-era “War on Drugs” and harm reduction as a public health concept.

Human trafficking, both sex trafficking and labor trafficking, is presented in all of its complexity.  Differentiation is made between human trafficking and human smuggling.  Vulnerable populations are identified, and recruitment, movement processes and migration routes are discussed.  Both labor and sex outlets are discussed.  Real photographs, some taken with an undercover camera, are shown, and cases that took place in Thailand  and neighboring countries are discussed.

HIV is explained as the nexus between drugs and human trafficking in Thailand. Current prevalence statistics are discussed and an innovative program in public health is presented. 

A brief history and discussion of sex work and sex tourism in the region, particularly in Thailand, post Vietnam era, and the effects at both the micro and macro levels enables the student to understand the impact of international global conflict on small nations.  Further discussion of sex tourism reveals its impact on human trafficking, child sexual abuse, the spread of sexually transmitted infections, as well as the social and economic impacts of this form of tourism.

Pedophiles, whether sex tourists or residents of Thailand, exploit both children and the institutionalized corruption in the country to avoid prosecution.  How they exploit children and families and avoid prosecution is explained and cases presented to the class.  The U.S. Protect Act is presented and explained.

Cross border migration patterns and their relationship to the routes used in illicit drug distribution and human trafficking are explained.  The pressures created on receiving countries may create further human rights violations such as statelessness and child labor.  Both of these are presented in detail, along with exercises and opportunities to discuss proposed solutions.

The difficulty of resolving these sometimes overwhelming problems in a legal system that is rife with corruption is addressed. Institutionalized corruption also prevents healthy growth and development of a country.  Examples of corruption are presented, along with case studies.

This is a six hour seminar.  Study time can be modified to meet the needs of the group.  Please contact www.sealeta.com or rlomax@loxinfo.co.th for further information on this or other seminars. 

©SEALETA, 2008