Regional approaches to trafficking in women in South-East Asia: the role of national human rights institutions and the new ASEAN human rights body

Abstract

This article examines historical efforts that have been made to address the issue of trafficking in women in South-East Asia, with a focus on regional approaches to the problem. In light of recent political developments in the subregion, the article will also assess what impact, if any, the introduction of a new ASEAN human rights body late in 2009 will have on the human rights of trafficked persons. The article argues that, in the absence of established regional mechanisms, national human rights institutions continue to remain key bodies for the promotion and protection of trafficked women in ASEAN.