A "NEW LIFE" FOR TRAFFICKED VICTIMS THROUGH PROTECTION AND OCCUPATIONAL DEVELOPMENT? : A Case Study of Baan Kredtrakarn, Thailand

Abstract: This thesis looked into the protection and occupational development process under the Thai government shelter and the extent to which it has assisted and supported the victims of human trafficking, both Thai and non-Thai, in psychosocial rehabilitation, therapy, and vocational training and development. I used the capability theory and empowerment approach as a framework of analysis to assess qualitatively the findings from in-depth interviews during my fieldwork from 8th October to 8th November 2007 in Thailand, with various governmental, non-governmental and international organisations working on human trafficking issues. I analysed how the service built up the capabilities of women and girls ravaged from exploitation, and empowered them for a ?new life?. The protection process focused on welfare protection and occupational therapy for victims to develop their self-confidence and stand on their feet rather than training for a livelihood. It however served as a platform for women and girls to decide their next course of action - Thai women and girls were able to enrol in further education and training, and non-Thais before repatriation learnt some basic occupational skills. However, effectiveness of the service was constrained by such internal factors as lack of human resources at the shelter as well as external factors as weak follow-up from origin countries.