CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS’ ENGAGEMENT IN THE REGIONAL ANTI-HUMAN TRAFFICKING GOVERNANCE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Abstract

Globalization has increased the threat of cross-border criminal activities in the Southeast Asian region, including human trafficking. The number of human trafficking cases in the Southeast Asian region has been on the rise in recent years. In response to this condition, strategic and comprehensive actions are needed to strengthen the regional anti-human trafficking action and governance. This study aims to explain the role of civil society organizations in addressing the problem of human trafficking in Southeast Asia. To explain the role of civil society organizations, this research uses a qualitative method by analyzing various information regarding the existence of anti-human trafficking civil society organizations in the Southeast Asian region from official documents, previous research, news sites, and other secondary sources of information. This research shows the involvement of civil society organizations in anti-human trafficking initiatives in Southeast Asia, including support for ASEAN and the national governments in taking preventive measures, protecting the victims, and persecution perpetrators. Civil society organizations also carry out independent activities such as advocacy, campaigning, and education efforts to increase awareness among government elites and local communities in Southeast Asia about the threat of human trafficking crimes.