PROCEDURES AND ROUTES OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING IN GROUPS OF THE LABORS WORKING IN A FISHERY SECTOR IN THAILAND

Abstract

This research is about procedures and routes of human trafficking in groups of the labors working in a fishery sector in Thailand. The objectives of the research were 1) to study procedures and routes of human trafficking for workforce in Thai fishery industry and 2) to study patterns, features, processes, and networks of the human trafficking. The data were collected by questionnaires from 114 alien fishery labors working in the area of Samutsakhon province and Ranong province. In addition, the data collection of the research was conducted by in-depth interviews from concerned officials, and representatives from fishery entrepreneurs. As for the result of the research, it was found that the first procedure starts when various kinds of Thai brokers contact groups of foreign labors who desire to have unpermitted work in Thailand. Additionally, some concerned officials illegally involve in the procedure as a network of influential organized crime groups. Most ways the labors trek across the border for migrant smuggling are by natural routes, mostly traveling in group. After that, the Thai brokers distribute the illegal labors to targets by way of deception, excessive debt, coercion, false imprisonment, and detainment under the work condition that a payment will be deducted for transport and brokers’ commission. In terms of measures to prevent and suppress human trafficking, it is essential to solve structural problems by integrating thoughts and practices of all parties, including both government and private sectors. Importantly, a law must be strictly enforced on the brokers, entrepreneurs, and corrupt officials.