Lao PDR: Knowledge boosters

Evidence indicates that the incidence of irregular migration into Thailand from its neighbouring Lao People’s Democratic Republic is increasing. This is partly attributed to unrealistically positive images of life in the more economically developed Thailand that is not mitigated by information about the dangers, risks and vulnerabilities associated with migration in general and irregular migration in particular. Although the Lao Government regards human trafficking as a threat to its social security, there is also a lack of awareness among relevant provincial and district officials and staff of national laws and regulations on migration, labour protection and overseas employment, which ultimately inhibits the development of a protective environment.

“Lots of people ask about and want to get overseas work. They come into the district labour office, but all I can do is send them to the provincial office. It’s important to disseminate existing regulations directly to the villages,” explained a district official.