Child trafficking for sexual exploitation is an immense problem in Thailand. Especially young girls from the northern part of the country are forced to work as prostitutes. Many of these girls belong to ethnic minorities, such as Akha, Lahu or Yao and become victims of human trafficking easily: This is because these ethnic minorities are not recognised as citizens of Thailand, they are poor and have no legal protection.
The project Ecogirls predominantly carries out preventive measures. Ecogirls tries to improve the situation of such girls in a sustainable manner through awareness-raising, setting up of farming co-operatives and especially through vocational training programmes. This is because child traffickers and procurers have a slim chance to lure girls with secondary school qualifications into prostitution by making false promises. Around 100 girls from very vulnerable families receive a scholarship of € 50 yearly; 30 scholarship holders live and learn at the "Mon Saeng Dao" Training Centre near the provincial town of Chiangrai.
The girls can acquire secondary school qualifications, i.e. they can complete their schooling here. Besides the usual subjects, songs, dance and handicrafts of the respective cultures, application of medicinal plants, ecological agriculture and environmental protection are also taught here. The teachers also make the children aware of their rights. This helps to build up self confidence and a sense of pride regarding their social and ethnic background.
Furthermore, the project partner carries out seminars on issues of child trafficking, education and children’s rights. Members of governmental and non-governmental organisations, academics, multipliers, as well as vulnerable children and young people participate in these seminars.
