Hooded Girl

Rescuing Kulsume: A Story of Hope Amid Human Trafficking

A Deceptive Promise

Kulsume*, a young Nepali girl, was caught in a terrifying ordeal. Her trafficker took advantage of Nepal's open border with India—a well-known route for transporting women and children into exploitation. Lured by the false promise of employment and a better future, Kulsume unknowingly walked toward a grim fate.

A Timely Intervention

Just as Kulsume was about to be taken across the border, a monitor from one of Freedom 58's partner organizations intervened. These highly trained individuals are stationed at key transit points to detect signs of human trafficking. They observe body language, analyze inconsistencies in travel stories, and assess potential risks. Their vigilance that day saved Kulsume from being sold into slavery and exploitation.

Trafficking Through Nepal’s Open Border

Nepal’s open border with India is a common trafficking route. Criminal networks use this pathway to transport women and children under false pretenses. One of the most common exploitations is through “orchestra dancers,” where young girls are forced to perform at public functions and are then sexually exploited by men.

Human Trafficking in Southeast Asia

Human trafficking remains a pressing issue across Southeast Asia, affecting thousands of lives each year.

• Myanmar: Approximately 800,000 people are subjected to forced labor.
• Cambodia: At least 25% of the 20,000 individuals in prostitution are children, some as young as five years old.
• Thailand: Reports indicate that 40% of prostitutes in the country are minors.

These statistics reveal the urgent need for continued vigilance, intervention, and stronger policies to combat human trafficking. Organizations working on the frontlines play a crucial role in preventing individuals from falling victim to these horrific crimes.

*Pseudonym used to protect identity.