Aid workers 'abusing children'
Tribal children in Chiang Rai are being sexually abused by some members of non-profit organisations working to educate these children, former Chiang Rai senator Tuenjai Deethes has revealed.
Tuenjai, a member of National Legislative Assembly, said she was told that the number of victims was growing despite an official report about the issue. "Most of the tribal children, boys and girls, were offered a chance to continue their studies in town, withfunding and shelter provided, by these non-profit organisations. It is sad to hear that some people working with these organisations take advantage of the children's respect by sexually violating a number of them while in their care. Some children have even been raped," she said. "Most of the victims, aged from eight to 15, say nothing about what they faced due to fears that their education or financial support will be withdrawn," she said. "I believe there are many in the organisations with good intentions but some are not so good. Some even show photos of children on the Internet for commercial purposes. I am worried that the problem will develop into Internet sex trading." Tuenjai urged the Social Develop-ment and Human Security Ministry to step in, and called for inspections of shelters for tribal children and scrutiny aid organisations' activities. Juthamas Rajprasit, manager of the Foundation for Tribal Community Development in Chiang Rai, confirmed the problem. She said it was often found in Muang and Maechan districts, where a number of the organisations are operating. "From our experience, the victims refuse to reveal anything about what they have faced. They just asked to move to another shelter without giving a reason. Early this year, three children aged eight, 12 and 14 in Muang district were involved," she said. "Legally, we have rights to inspect shelters with more than six children, but we have only ten officials - not enough to cover all. This problem has had a low priority in the past," Juthamas said. Chiang Rai social worker Rungthip Nanthasarn said her office had received no reports of sexual abuse. "I believe the children would not be brave enough to report it after they had been violated," she said.
Ekaphong Praditphong The Nation Chiang Rai
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