Tourism Child Safety First: Phuket Declares War on Sex Tourism

[snoop1130]

Picture courtesy of Hic et Nunc

 

In a determined effort to protect the island’s vulnerable children, Phuket officials have launched a significant initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and human trafficking in the bustling tourist destination.

 

The campaign, named "Strengthening the Protection Against Safe Tourism, Far from Child Sexual Exploitation," was unveiled on 16th July at the Seabed Grand Hotel in Phuket Town. This event, a collaboration of key agencies such as the Phuket Provincial Office, For Freedom International Foundation, the Anti-Human Trafficking Fund, and the Office of Social Development and Human Security, aims to raise awareness and action within the tourism industry.

 

Phuket Vice Governor, Samawit Suphanphai, emphasised the critical role the tourism sector plays in this battle. "Protecting children is everyone’s job, including those in tourism. Frontline workers must be trained to spot the signs and act swiftly," he asserted.

 

During the workshop, hotel staff and tour operators from areas like Patong received training on identifying signs of abuse, reporting suspicious activities, and understanding their legal duties. The practical sessions aimed to equip these professionals with the skills necessary to become vigilant defenders against exploitation.

 

Chanwit Kittiwongsunthon from For Freedom International explained, “Tourism professionals have a unique opportunity to prevent abuse before it begins. This initiative is about transforming knowledge into actionable defence.”

 

Vice Governor Samawit also pointed out the global implications, stating that protecting children not only saves lives but also enhances Thailand’s image as a leader in ethical tourism. This is particularly pertinent as national concerns about child trafficking and exploitation increase.

 

The campaign reflects a broader commitment to ethical tourism in Thailand and reinforces the island’s dedication to being a safe haven, free from exploitation. By involving hoteliers, bar owners, and other tourism workers, Phuket sends a clear message that it is a destination not only of beauty but also of responsibility.

 

The initiative seeks not just to educate but to empower those on the frontlines of tourism to take decisive action against these heinous crimes. With the backing of local authorities and international support, Phuket is taking a stand to ensure its picturesque paradise does not become tainted by the sinister shadow of exploitation.

 

At a time when tourism is critical to the economy, now more than ever, there is a shared responsibility to ensure ethical practices are upheld. This movement in Phuket could serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar challenges, showing that safeguarding the vulnerable is indeed a shared task with crucial economic and moral implications.

 

By transforming awareness into actionable measures, Phuket is leading by example, promoting a safe, ethical tourism industry that prioritises the wellbeing of its most vulnerable citizens. The island is not only opening its doors to tourists but also firmly closing them against exploitation and abuse.

 

As this campaign gains momentum, the message resonates loud and clear: there is no place for exploitation in paradise. This bold stand could well redefine the ethical standards of tourism across Thailand and beyond.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-21

 

 

[ikke1959]

They are closing the whole island???

[StayinThailand2much]

Been to Phuket several times, but never saw any child sexual exploitation there.

[Will B Good]

1 hour ago, snoop1130 said:

Strengthening the Protection Against Safe Tourism, Far from Child Sexual Exploitation

 

 

That'll stick in peoples mind......catchy.

 

[Hummin]

10 minutes ago, StayinThailand2much said:

Been to Phuket several times, but never saw any child sexual exploitation there.

Good for you, do you see it other places?