Children's Organization of Southeast Asia,Thailand

The Children’s Organization of Southeast Asia (COSA) was a non-profit, non-governmental organization based in northern Thailand that focused on the prevention of human trafficking and child exploitation. The organization’s approach was centered on a philosophy of “prevention through education,” addressing the root causes of trafficking in vulnerable communities.

Core Mission and Strategy

COSA’s work was based on building relationships of trust and cultural understanding with at-risk communities, particularly ethnic minority groups in northern Thailand. By working directly with these communities, COSA aimed to combat human trafficking at its source. The organization’s ultimate goal was to foster long-term, sustainable social change by providing children with safety, education, and support, thereby reducing their vulnerability to exploitation.

Key Programs

COSA’s programs were designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by children and families in these communities:

• Baan Yuu Suk Shelter: A flagship initiative that provided a safe haven for at-risk children.
• PASS (Providing Access to School and Safety) Project: This program addressed the significant barrier of access to education by providing transportation for children from remote villages to attend school. It also offered financial support for school supplies, uniforms, and meals, helping to reduce the financial burden on families.
• MOSAIC (Medical Outreach and Social Aid In Communities): Created to address critical health and social needs. The program provided healthcare services, family counseling, and intervention for child abuse, recognizing that economic struggles and health issues are significant risk factors for exploitation.
• OASIS (Outreach and Special Intel Services): Established in collaboration with the Royal Thai Police, this program was designed to strengthen COSA’s prevention efforts by assisting with the rescue and temporary sheltering of children who had been victims of trafficking.

By focusing on community empowerment, education, and direct support, COSA worked to create a more resilient environment for children, breaking the cycle of poverty and exploitation that often leads to human trafficking.