ASEAN wages war against trafficking

ASEAN wages war against trafficking

VIENTIANE: Southeast Asian countries agreed on Monday to jointly wage war against human trafficking, especially of women and children, an often-overlooked problem that has been fostered by widespread poverty and weak law enforcement in the region.

Leaders of the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations, assembled in Laos for a summit, called for stronger border controls, cooperation in breaking up syndicates and better assistance for the victims.

Their declaration also sought stronger legislation and judicial action on trafficking.

Human trafficking has become a lucrative business in Southeast Asian countries like Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines where poverty and armed conflicts have forced tens of thousands to flee their homes and in some cases seek refuge abroad.

Some end up being forced into prostitution or sweatshops, accepting work under inhuman conditions out of desperation. -- AP