Human trafficking crimes in Cambodia and Indonesia: A comparison of legal frameworks and victim protection efforts

Abstract

Human trafficking is a pervasive transnational crime in Southeast Asia, with Indonesia and Cambodia remaining vulnerable both as source and destination countries. The prevalence of cases and the complexity of modus operandi require effective legal measures and adequate victim protection. This study aims to compare the legal frameworks of Indonesia and Cambodia in combating human trafficking and to assess the implementation of victim protection mechanisms. Employing normative legal research with a comparative law approach, the study relies on primary legal sources, including national legislation and international instruments, as well as secondary sources such as academic literature and official reports. The findings indicate that Indonesia has established a more comprehensive framework through Law No. 21 of 2007 in line with the Palermo Protocol, while Cambodia, despite adopting international principles under its 2008 Law on Suppression of Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation, still faces challenges in law enforcement capacity and institutional coordination. Both countries provide victim protection measures; however, limitations persist in funding and inter-agency collaboration. The study concludes that stronger bilateral and multilateral cooperation, enhanced institutional capacity, and sustainable victim protection are essential to reinforcing anti-trafficking efforts.