The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries are always looking for ways to improve their response to trafficking in persons. However, these efforts are being held back by a lack of relevant, reliable data on trafficking. Recognizing this problem, in 2005, the ASEAN member countries commissioned IOM to conduct a pilot research project to identify “best practice” in data collection on trafficking, and to prepare a situation report on data collection by government agencies in four ASEAN member countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand).

This report presents the findings of that research and reflects the work of four national research teams, based in Phnom Penh, Jakarta, Manila and Bangkok. It analyses information obtained through reviews of the existing literature, interviews with government officials, and examination of government documents, such as intake forms and annual reports. The report would not have been possible without the assistance and cooperation of the four host governments: Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand.