Online and Offline Sexual Exploitation of Boys, Young Men, and Trans/Third Gender Youth and Adults in Northern Thailand

Author: Miles, Glenn; Davis, Jarrett; Mounsher, Maia & Stenersen, Madeline

Abstract: Globally, anti-trafficking prevention organizations and law enforcement have struggled to keep up with the constantly changing online spaces used for sex trade and trafficking. The current study aimed to understand the current state of online commercial sexual exploitation of boys, young men, and trans/third gender children and adults in Thailand. Using a respondent-driven sampling methodology, data were collected from 94 individuals assigned male at birth, ranging in age from 16 to 39 years old regarding 1) Demographics, 2) Entrance into Sex Trade, 3) Sex Trade & Exploitation in Person, 4) Online Sex Trade & Exploitation, 5) Physical and Emotional Safety, and 6) Accessing Support Services. Results found that the use of the internet for child sexual exploitation and sex trade is pervasive, with the majority of respondents noting participation in both in-person and online engagement with customers. Physical and sexual violence were frequently reported among respondents. Furthermore, gender norms and expectations present unique vulnerabilities for cisgender males and trans/third gender people from accessing and receiving support and services. The results of this study inform comprehensive recommendations for service providers, policymakers, funders, and researchers, and work toward the UN Sustainable Development Goal of promoting a just, peaceful, and inclusive society.

Keywords: boys, trans/third gender, sexual exploitation, online, sex trade