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Lao Youth Exposed to Human Trafficking

The problem of youth exposure to human trafficking was the focus of an enthralling drama performance at 9th Annual Donkoy Children’s Fair in Lao PDR.

A room at Donkoy Children’s Development Centre, Xaysettha district, Vientiane was beautifully prepared and a simple stage set for the performance by the children of the centre. Young actors present a drama on human trafficking.
 
The amateur performers had spent two months of their summer holiday practicing traditional dance and singing routines as well as learning to make handicrafts at the centre. Onstage the children gave the impression of trained actors, expressing sadness, laughter and anger on cue in a bid to capture the hearts of the judging panel and encourage applause from the dozens of onlookers packed into the small room.

Some actors used only their voices, while others had props or musical instruments provided by the centre, such as the melodica. The performance of a group of ten children drew the most interest. Wearing black clothes and simple sinhs, the children acted out their dismay at their friends being cheated by criminals. The sadness of the children made a great impression on the audience.

The Monkey Dance provided some happy relief with the masked children running and playing among the audience and causing plenty of laughter. The musical instruments were basic but played well, much to the enjoyment of the guests.

“I loved being a part of this performance,” said Ms Lina Heaungpaseauth, 14, an actor in the human trafficking drama. “I enjoyed it so much and we were happy to entertain our guests.”

Ms Lina had joined the drama class for two months after completing her normal studies for the year. Although she attends Phanmanh Secondary School, some distance from the centre, she is dedicated to regular classes at the centre.

While the school is closed, the centre encourages children not only from Donkoy village but also from other villages to come and take part in activities during their holidays. It plays an important role in providing children with fun learning activities. They learn traditional dances, how to play traditional instruments, creative writing, weaving and even carpentry.

The centre has been like a second home to many of the children and young people who go there on a regular basis. Here they can talk to staff about any problems they have and get advice on matters of concern.

Adapted from: "The Problem of Youth Exposure to Human Trafficking." Vientiane Times. 22 August 2007.
(Source: UNIAP Cambodia)