Combat Human Trafficking? Go Against Foreign Models!

[Misterwhisper]

Received the below press invitation this morning (scroll down):

Bravo! Once again this government shows that it's got its priorities right in terms of fighting against human trafficking.

Forget those fish trawlers, factories and sweatshops where adult and underage foreigners from neighboring countries and locals alike are enslaved and exploited. Forget those human trafficking rings that use Thailand as a convenient transit country.

No, it's "illegal and underage foreign models" against who we really have to do something. And quickly, too, because once again the country's image is in grave danger! I mean, the whole world watches Thailand and constantly criticizes the proliferation of "illegal and underage foreign models" in the country, isn't that right?

Perhaps it would be an idea to make it easier for "foreign models" of whatever age to obtain a work permit, which would not only make them "legal" but also put them on the income tax roster. But no, let's call a witch hunt disguised as a "project" on them instead, shall we?

How many "illegal and underage foreign models" are there actually in Thailand at any given time compared to the tens of thousands of exploited laborers and other human trafficking victims?

{BTW, I am not a "foreign model". I just think this is a knee jerk reaction that does not in the least address the root problems of human trafficking in this country and - sadly - once again pushes the xenophobia and hypocrisy to the foreground that obviously is so deeply ingrained among certain circles.)

[farang000999]

Despicable.

[Jessi]

Another knee jerk reaction to try & cover up Thai Stupidity.

[Seastallion]

Russian model here on her own volition and earning money...Crikey! It's time to boycott and sanction Thailand. This trafficking is getting out of hand.

[AyG]

Ludicrous.

There is no "international law" banning the use of models under the age of 18.

The primary concerns appears to be working without a work permit and not paying tax. Nothing to do with human trafficking, which is just being used as a fig leaf.