Produced by:
KBOO
Program::
Air date:
Fri, 10/23/2009 - 6:00pm to 7:00pm
Commercial Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking, particularly in Thailand
Commercial Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking, particularly in Thailand
An interview with journalist Deena Guzder, who is based in New York City and has reported on human rights issues across the world. In May 2008, Guzder was the youngest student to complete a dual-degree from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism and School of International & Public Affairs. She has received journalism grants from the Carnegie & Knight Foundations to report on theocracy and democracy in Iran; the Scripps Howard Foundation to report on oppressed “untouchables” in India; and, the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting to report on commercial sexual exploitation and human trafficking in Thailand.
Thailand is often called the “Land of Smiles” and considered a tropical paradise full of friendly, spiritual locals eager to share their unique cuisine and pristine beaches. However, Thailand’s elaborate culinary feats and sun-washed beachfronts are not the only reason why the country has become the playground of the rich and elite of the world. Conservative estimates suggest that 10% of tourist dollars are spent on the sex trade. Behind the brothels posing as massage parlors is a painful story involving women trafficked from Burma, children exploited by pimps, and global economic disparities that allow rich tourists to make unchecked demands on impoverished locals' bodies.