A training workshop titled ‘Strengthening the Protection Against Safe Tourism, Far from Child Sexual Exploitation’ was held at the Seabed Grand Hotel in Phuket Town on Wednesday (July 16).
The event was jointly organised by the Phuket Provincial Office, the For Freedom International Foundation, the Anti-Human Trafficking Fund and the Office of Social Development and Human Security.
Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai presided over the opening of the workshop, which drew strong attendance from representatives of government agencies, hotel operators, tourism businesses and community organisations.
Chanwit Kittiwongsunthon, speaking on behalf of the For Freedom International Foundation, outlined the objectives of the initiative.
The workshop is aimed at raising awareness and building practical knowledge among tourism professionals ‒ particularly those operating in Patong and surrounding areas, which attract large numbers of visitors each year, said an official report of the event.
Key topics included identifying signs of child sexual exploitation, appropriate intervention and the legal obligations of tourism businesses.
Vice Governor Samawit stressed the importance of cross-sector cooperation, saying the protection of children requires active involvement from both public and private stakeholders.
“Developing the capacity of frontline workers, such as hotel staff and tour operators, is crucial,’ he said. “They are in a position to observe suspicious behaviour and respond swiftly to protect victims. This project is a vital step in making Phuket a genuinely safe destination for children and youth.”
He added that efforts to tackle exploitation not only protect vulnerable individuals but also contribute to Thailand’s global image as a responsible and ethical tourism destination.
Organisers hope the training will serve as a model for other provinces, reinforcing long-term safeguards within Thailand’s tourism infrastructure.