Thailand Passes Human Trafficking Bill

The National Legislative Assembly (NLA) yesterday passed the Anti-Human Trafficking Act, which subjects violators to heavier penalties, especially government officials, politicians and office holders.  The Act, which will take effect within the next 120 days, also includes measures against media outlets that publish the identity or pictures of sex crime victims. Editors could face up to six months in jail and/or a fine up to Bt60,000 if convicted of identifying victims or using photos of them without permission.  

The Act also prohibits a practice known as “tok kheo”, in which young girls from upcountry areas are sold by their parents in advance to provide sex service in the future. Parents or any people soliciting for such purposes also face criminal prosecution.  For the full story, click here.