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