Intersection, a new animation film, produced by MTV EXIT (End Exploitation and Trafficking) takes a hard-hitting look at human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Asia.

The story is told from the perspective of five individuals who make up part of the trafficking chain: the victim, trafficker, mamasan (brothel owner), brothel client and an undercover cop. The film features the voices of local singing stars Athisak Rattanawong (lead singer, Cells) and Unphawan Sangdawan (lead Singer, Temple Guys) and premiered on the Lao Star Channel on the 2nd September.

“It’s an honour to be involved with such an important project that will empower young men and women in Laos and throughout Asia to fight this terrible practice,” said Rattanawong. “I hope the animation will stir meaningful conversations among youth about how we can fight against this tragic form of modern-day slavery.” 

Human trafficking is the second-largest illegal trade in the world after drugs, with criminals earning more than US$10 billion each year through the buying and selling of human beings. According to Simon Goff, MTV EXIT’s Campaign Director, “The purpose of the MTV EXIT campaign is to raise young people’s awareness and increase prevention of human trafficking and exploitation.  Unique programs like Intersection are a creative and innovative approach to educating our audience about this critical social issue. The release of this program on MTV channels and other broadcasters across Asia will empower young people to avoid the dangers of human trafficking,” 

Ms Sonam Yangchen Rana, UN Resident Coordinator, highlighted the importance of the role of the media.  “Intersection shows us how the mass-media can play a significant role in giving a global issue like human trafficking the exposure it deserves. In the context of preventing human trafficking by battling ignorance and raising awareness, the media plays a key role.”

Watch the animation film (English) about intersection on Youtube below:

MTV EXIT Animation Part 1 (English) 

MTV EXIT Animation Part 2 (English)

MTV EXIT Animation Part 3 (English)