Human trafficking is a significant issue in Indonesia. A large portion of Indonisians working abroad are undocumented, which puts them at a higher risk for exploitation. Out of 4.5 million Indonesians working abroad, it is estimated that 1.9 million are undocumented. Many Indonisians are being trafficked to foriegn nations, especially Malaysia and Thailand. Many Indonesians are put into forced labor in Malaysian factories and on their fields. In addition, some workers are given fake Thai identification by shell companies and forced to work on fishing trawlers. Another problem is with private labor agencies, many of which are active in human trafficking.
Indonesia has been increasing efforts to combat these varied issues since 2007 with new, more comprehensive legislation. More recently, Indonesia has been suspending licenses for any private labor agencies suspected of human trafficking. Indonesia has also been locating and shutting more trafficking rings as well as providing shelter, care, and monetary compensation for victims. There have been social media campaigns for awareness, as well as training provided to local law enforcement on how to deal with human trafficking. The United Nations needs to help struggling nations deal with this issue by providing funding to areas with high rates of human trafficking.
- Oscar Peck-Dorr
