Liberal democratic states have been dealing with major refugee flows. The migration of large numbers of people to Europe and North America has multiple causes which include regional conflicts, the consequences of global warming, political opposition to autocratic regimes and societal inequalities which involve the exploitation of people, trafficking and human slavery This study provides background information on the factors that drive refugees flows from Asia, including the general security situation, political repression and transnational criminal activity. It is a resource for volunteers and professionals involved in supporting refugees and victims of human slavery.