In partnership with Polaris Project and Vital Voices Global Partnership The Changemakers Innovation Award Competition: How to End Human Trafficking
Awards included a $5,000 cash prize for each of three winners chosen by vote of this online community
The Changemakers Innovation Awards recognize the best social change strategies that emerge from "open source" competitions hosted here every two months. Each competition cycle identifies and refines solutions to a pressing global problem.
* One of these finalist entries was disqualified from being among the top three winners because this Web site received a flood of illegitimate votes for it from people who voted more than once.
Perkins, anti-trafficking program manager of Vital Voices Global Partnership. Contestants may revise and
resubmit their entries based on insights gained from this discussion.
July 31 '07, 12:07
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Swinging Lifestyle
From: Swinging Lifestyle and Adult Dating - Find your Perfect SEX Partner today.
Great DataBase of Swinging Couples who Enjoy Relationship and Sex with One Another.
FREE to Join. <a href=http://swingers-mate.com >swingers</a>
http://swingers-ma
Swinging Lifestyle and Adult Dating - Find your Perfect SEX Partner today. Great DataBase of Swinging Couples who Enjoy Relationship and Sex with One Another. FREE to Join. <a href=http://swingers-mate.com >swingers</a> http://swingers-mate.com
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
alternative lifestyle
From: Swingers Dating Adult Swinger Personals.
swingers hot couples sex, swingers lifestyle club,
<a href=http://alt.ads6x.com >alternative lifestyle</a>
<a href=http://fetish.ads6x.com >fetish</a>
<a href=http://bondage.ads6x.
Swingers Dating Adult Swinger Personals. swingers hot couples sex, swingers lifestyle club, <a href=http://alt.ads6x.com >alternative lifestyle</a> <a href=http://fetish.ads6x.com >fetish</a> <a href=http://bondage.ads6x.com >bondage</a> <a href=http://california.ads6x.com >california swingers</a> <a href=http://florida.ads6x.com >florida swingers</a> <a href=http://ohio.ads6x.com >ohio swingers</a> <a href=http://pennsylvania.ads6x.com >pennsylvania swingers</a> <a href=http://texas.ads6x.com >texas swingers</a> real adult swingers personal ads with swingers photos, sexy hot Swingers profiles , married couples.
June 18 '07, 9:06
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
hot pussy
From: Adult personals photo ads with sex personals and online dating
<a href=http://findhotpussyin.com >hot pussy</a> <a href=http://sexyfemalesin.com >sexy females</a>
<a href=http://adultfriendsin.com >adult friends</a>
Adult personals photo ads with sex personals and online dating <a href=http://findhotpussyin.com >hot pussy</a> <a href=http://sexyfemalesin.com >sexy females</a> <a href=http://adultfriendsin.com >adult friends</a> <a href=http://womentofuckin.com >women to fuck</a> <a href=http://chatwithpeoplein.com >sex chat with people</a> <a href=http://curiouswifes.com >bi curious wifes</a> <a href=http://hornywomanin.com >horny woman</a> <a href=http://couplescplssex.com >couples sex</a> <a href=http://hornygirlsin.com >horny girls</a> Adult swingers dating personals for swinging couples.
June 10 '07, 21:06
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
swingers ads
From: Adult personal ads from swingers and swappers, couples, singles, bi,
<a href=http://sexy.ads6x.com >swingers ads</a> and wives amateur couples Swingers Club
Adult personal ads from swingers and swappers, couples, singles, bi, <a href=http://sexy.ads6x.com >swingers ads</a> and wives amateur couples Swingers Club
May 31 '07, 2:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
adult dating
From: Adult Dating Personals, millions of dating personals online, find adult swingers, singles, couples <a href=http://adultdating.ads6x.com >adult dating</a>
Adult Dating Personals, millions of dating personals online, find adult swingers, singles, couples <a href=http://adultdating.ads6x.com >adult dating</a>
May 23 '07, 15:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
swingers
From: Looking for dates, sex, swingers, <a href=http://swingers.ads6x.com >swingers</a> 3 somes and much more
Looking for dates, sex, swingers, <a href=http://swingers.ads6x.com >swingers</a> 3 somes and much more
Dear Members I am Mr Bala from Paris. I wish to participate in your associations to eradicate the human trafficking, children prostitution, child labor..
If you are interested of my participation, please, contact me. With regards
It is great to see fantastic initiatives being undertaken all over the world to end human trafficking.. I saw some comments on the part that youth and young people can take... Our entry is focused on the strenght of the youth in changing systems and initiating change, there are instances in SANLAAP's proposa (SAMVAV Engaging Youth To end Trafficking) where the youth themselves are fighting against this evil in the rural areas addressing the source and in the red lioght areas, the final destination of girls trafficked for forced prostitution.
It was excellent to be allow to summit an entry as an individual to the Changemakers Competition. I liked to see all entries, specially the entries of CAST, The Department of Justice, The Population Media Center, The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and mine of course . It is great to see how TIP can be fight in many different ways.
The US TIP report is a great instrument. The TVPA is an invaluable piece of legislation that we have to celebrate and defend - specially in my case coming from a country where the Justice System do not work the way it should. I think the work of people like Congressman Chris Smith has to be laud highly. Sadly, this great instrument is loosing to much respect an credibility, thanks to the efforts of DOS officials that are playing to much politics with it and are not caring enough about human trafficking victims or advocating for them. They are not complying with the 3P . A great and powerful country like the US could do great things to fight TIP. I am just shock how the DOS managed trafficking issues in Argentina. Please, ask your Congress and serious NGOs working TIP to pay attention.
June 7 '05, 13:06
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: 2005 Trafficking in Persons Report
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Since a lot of our entries and finalists are not US-based organizations, I would like to hear about your thoughts on the US TIP report.
Has the TIP report been helpful to your work in your country?
I see that many finalists are from India. What do you think about India this year's tier 2 watch list ranking? How does the civil society think?
Welcome comments about other countries as well.
June 5 '05, 13:06
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
2005 Trafficking in Persons Report
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear All,
The US State Department released this year's report on June 3. The TIP report is an assessment of government efforts to counter human trafficking. An assessment of US government efforts will be released in two weeks by the US Department of Justice. For the 2005 TIP report, please visit: http://www.state.gov/g/tip/rls/tiprpt/2005/
If you have any comments, welcome to post on this board as well.
Wenchi
June 4 '05, 23:06
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Impressed!
From: Anita M. Chauhan, PANGKAT FOUNDATION, ADVISER
Dear Changemakers.net, This is the first time I visited your website after getting your email. Congratulations for doing a fine job of bringing attention to the world against this evil-HUMAN TRAFFICKING. The world will be a better place to live in if only we work for a worthy cause like what you have done. I still have to browse all of the entries but I find their topics quite intriguing and attractive to read. I'm adviser of PANGKAT FOUNDATION, a human rights foundation that was establsihed since 1986. Our Foundation is interested to regularly visit your website to keep updated of what other people in other parts of the world do to combat human trafficking.
June 2 '05, 20:06
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
All comments welcome
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Gloval Partnership
Dear All,
I am glad to see new comments added to this discussion regarding the selection of the 16 finalists. This competition is also an innovative design and thus encourages your feedback to make it better.
I look forward to new postings regarding either the finalists or other issues. Before this comeptition officially ends, this discussion board is still open.
Again, our purpose is to encourage innovative thoughts and discussions on how to effectively combat trafficking. Your participation is a demonstration of the success of the global campaign. Please join the community!
Hello, I was just viewing all the finalists in the contest and noticed that there was not even a single entry of an individual in the list. I guess it could be that the contributions did not meet the quality of finalists, but in a way individuals who contributed [like me for instance] find it a bit discouraging. While I find the final entries very impressive, I also have a sugggestion that maybe you could have seperate categories of judging for entries sent by individuals. I feel that entries by organizations and individuals are distinct in terms of their background, operation and resources and therefore should be evaluated seperately. Sincerely, Smita
i believe the judges wee unbiased in their final decision ,however i believe contrary to others that poverty is the root cause of the trafficking considering the fact that poorer countries account for a higher percentage of traffick cases,no matter the innovative strategy set up,there will be no ipact if the peoples primary needs of hunger and shelter are not duly satisfied.i also believe that only youths can effectively affect other youths since youths are the major people being trafficked youth to youth contact will create more impact than any other strategy that appears nice on the surface the big quesion is how will theses strategies be implemented. my article also recieved a high rating showing the solidity of my points.Good luck i still hope positive change is acheived in the shortest possible time.
June 2 '05, 0:06
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Letter to Derek Ellerman
From: Derek Ellerman, Polaris Project, Co-Executive Director
Dear Robert,
Thank you for your post and your thoughts. I absolutely agree that povery and inequality are important contributing factors to the existence of trafficking in persons. But I don't believe they are the primary or sole factors as some uncritically suggest, overlooking the role of demand and other factors. I apologize if my statement seemed more categorical than intended.
hello Mr chidi charles, i like your work and i want to commend you. This model is by far the most feasible especially in Africa. Pls keep the good work up. From Umoye j.
Today was the first time I'd heard of ASHOKA and the Polaris Project. All though I haven't read very far into your programs, I feel compelled to comment on your "Human Tracking: A Framework" article.
First of all, let me assure you that I believe in your efforts. I believe you and your organization represent one of the few international efforts toward this problem. But, I do believe you are wrong when you imply that the existance of poverty, the poor, inequality and exploitation, etc... are not responsible for this, at all. Your analogy, I believe explains why.
You say:
"Some people have asserted that the root cause of trafficking is poverty and inequality (because these conditions create a population that is vulnerable to crime).... An analogous argument would be to blame poppies for the heroin trade, as opposed to! those who create the demand for heroin and the drug traffickers who manufacture and distribute heroin to profit from meeting that demand."
Well, here we have to remember, the poppies exist, but heroin has to be created, just as the drug addict, the dealer, and the government that supports drug trafficing, just as poverty, inequality, and the government that supports human trafficing. Human traffic is the result of many overlapping problems that are much greater than the regions they sometimes occur in!
There are so people, meaning to do well, in many organization. We needed to combine our efforts, see the BIG PICTURE, and change the world. Please see my site at www.kushand.org.
It would appreciate it if you would consider what I have written.
I have a question for the Social Alternatives Association submission. While I agree that educating potential consumers of sex trade services about the reality of trafficking and exploitation is a good idea, I find your suggestion that potential Johns can serve as "rescuers" of sex slaves rather alarming. First, I assume that you mean that these clients would purchase the freedom of the sex workers, which does nothing to dissemble the system and in fact, perpetuates the profits of the traffickers. Second, the relationship between a John and a prostitute has all sorts of inherent unhalthy power dynamics, which the role of "rescuer" for the John would seem to actually feed. How would you prevent these clients from forming exploitative relationships with the women/ girls? How can you ensure that men so willing to patronize these places can be trusted to chaperone these women to safety?
From Madre Coraje thank you very much for giving different people and organizations from all over the world the opportunity to take part in this debate about human trafficking. We have learnt a lot from the rest of contestants. We believe that the end of human trafficking will be a hopeful reality in a near future if people carry on working in projects like the ones shown in this competition.
We would also like to tell you a bit more about our project regarding to the questions you raised a few days ago.
The sustainability of the project lies on the companies and in the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility. Companies set aside a part of their budget to finance these projects, they also encourage their staff to get involved and to take part actively in the projects. The staff is able to adopt children from welcome centers and companies help them to visit these centres "in situ" with the goal of making their employees aware of the situation of the children and enabling them to cooperate.
Companies also promote network with other companies and organizations which are working on similar projects.
One of the main points of our project is that companies have to see welcome centres as a opportunity to give young people a formation in the areas they work and need, for example, creating in the welcome centres workshops that will anable children to work for that company in the long run or to run their own business at local level. This is important because at the same time we are taking children out of the streets, avoiding to get caught by traffikers and on the other hand the local economy is being enhanced.
Thank you to all participants,
Madre Coraje
May 29 '05, 11:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Thank you for your entries.
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear changemakers:
Thank you for your entries. We are delighted to see 68 innovative anti- trafficking projects from 21 countries. We want to commend everyone on your ideas and passion to end human trafficking, one of the most egregious violations of human rights today.
While only 3 projects will receive the final awards, all of you have contributed to the global anti-trafficking effort.
Beginning on June 1, 15 finalists will be announced and voted on. If you are selected as one of the finalists, congratulations and feel free to mobilize community support to demonstrate your on-line grassroots participation. If your entry is not selected, please also join the vote for other interesting ideas.
Again, we appreciate your participation in this on-line competition. Our goal is to mobilize the global human rights community, and we look forward to your continued efforts to combating human trafficking.
I posted a comment on involving government expenditure.
Well i need to add that once such a program is putup, we can always drive itasabill in parliament to force govenment to commit funds to the programme. Parliament has allways been very helpful in such matters.
FOR THE ATTENTION OF THE DISSUSSION MODERATOR WHO SEEKS MORE INFORMATION ON FAIR TRADE, ADVOCACY IN RESPONSE TO TAIWO OSENI'S ENTRY TITLED, "HUMAN TRAFFICKING: WESTERN WORLD'S PROMOTION OF TRADE AND ENSHRINEMENT OF POVERTY IN DEVELOPING NATIONS".
FAIR TRADE is generally about making sure poor producers get their adequate returns for what they produce. Fair trade is the extent of integrating economically with the rest of the world openness and competitiveness in the global economy.
But the reverse is the case with developing countries, they do not get adequate returns for what they produce. This is because markets are amoral: they (markets) allow people to act with their interest but they pass no moral judgement on the interest themselves. Essentially, markets are rather selfish in its features in that the right practices which back up the supply chain to the original producers of goods and services are not met by virtue of some imperialistic trade rules that do not favour developing countries. Yet the society cannot function without some distinction between right and wrong.
Developing countries are again as in the early days of UNCTAD, becoming a major focus in matters of world trade reforms vis fair. While developing countries are heavily represented in the WTO (World Trade Organisation) -accounting for about four-fifths, that is, 80 percent of its membership - there is still plenty of scope for the World Trading system to work more effectively in their (Developing countries) interests. This is not fair trade!
It is evidenced that the prospective WTO (World Trade Organisation) Millennium Round of negotiations will highlight crucial economic issues regarding the application and implementation of the WTO rules to fair and international trade in goods and services;WTO is still faced with its numerous challenges that make up for fair trade viz: state trading and state aids; regionalism; regional integration;international investment; patents; and financial services, especially to developing countries.
It is pertinent to examine some of the crucial issues that make for fair trade that the WTO is still battling in terms of challenges in its millennium Round negotiation-
REGIONALISM- Beginning in the late 1980s, regional groupings started to become very popular as a tool for commercial policy that will facilitate fair trade in the global hemisphere. The concept of regionalism is that regions benefit in the economic openness and market integration at which returns will come to producers of goods and services and there will be a commercial advantage derived in regions towards trade - goods and services. The degree of regionalism among developing countries and between developed and developing countries improve economic development prospects and economic policy.
Economic policy, with fair trade, must be grounded on an intelligent application of the limitation of theoretical constructions and the consequential impact on real human beings in society. Human beings must have positive impact of what production, return on investment(roi)and adequate financial aid to back up effective production, supply chain and distribution of their goods and services. This enhances economic developing prospect thereby eradicating poverty, the bane of human trafficking - that must be put an end to in developing countries!
STATE: STATE TRADING AND STATE AID - In the 21st century, the nation state has lost some of its insular structure in developing countries. Its decision-making power has been subjugated to the forces of political and economic liberalism -trade liberalization that is currently sweeping the global economy,
Experience suggests that trade liberalization has contributed to the remakable growth of industrialised countries in developed countries at the expense of developing countries. Trade liberalization removed the protection enjoyed by infant industries and set the developing countries back twenty years on the path to industrial development.
Trade liberalization index is measured by "real exports" and "degree of openness". Ironically,fair trade enhances openness, transparency. Wither the hullabaloo of trade liberalization by the imperialists? (G7 and Institutional frame works like IMF, the world Bank, WTO, etc) Misguided liberalization meant the collapse of industries through competition from Superior (Developing countries) and cheaper import substitutes, retrenchment of workers and creation of idle capacity.
REGIONAL INTEGRATION-
With reference to regional integration which enhances fair trade, however, for various reasons, many developing countries have not yet been able to integrate successfully into global markets and reap the growth- inducing and poverty-reducing benefits of trade - fair trade
This is because the developing countries give developing countries stiffer trade rules and policies like high tariffs, high taxes on the goods and services, currency depreciation of resource-based economies at the expense of commodity prices that the poor produces in developing countries produce not yielding them adequate or little retuns, and even unfavourable balance of payment!
A fresh perspective on balance of payments theories, including intertemporal open economy models that focus on the optimum current account in foreign exchange theories. Any non-zero balance of payments must be associated with a disequilibriumin either a commodity or an asset market. A new theory of the balance of payments associated with commodity market disequilibrium, a loanable fund theory of exchange rate and a modern foreign exchange rate that incorporates capital flows.
Human trafficking will not allow poor producers have adequate returns for what they produce (fair trade), as a result of skill shortages. Skill shortages can be a major bottleneck for economic activity and growth.
The idea behind human trafficking is that when labour surplus, advanced throughout the developed world of which children and women, who are worse hit victims of human trafficking ar transported outside their jurisdiction to go and work, especially in crop plantations like coffee, cocoa, cotton, etc., it will aid food security that the developed countries will invariably export to developing countries as food aid!
But there is a way out of human trafficking. This is via ADVOCACY. ADVOCACY is going to work in ending human trafficking in terms of me being an activist. I shall speak loudly for the fundamental cause of the poor, who do not have a voice. I shall go places via travelling - go to Legislative Houses to sponsor and pass bills against total extermination of human trafficking.
Human trafficking is not a matter of taming the shrew- let us kill it in order to safe developing nations. Let them grow in terms of ensuring that they benefit from both globalization and liberalization - these two phenomenons that have enriched and industrialized rich developed nations. Advocacy via activism - being an activist is it!
I have received two questions regarding my proposals. 1. Does it need government coordination? 2. How would I convince government to put in these resources
If I may start with the first question, definitely such a program must on the overall be coordinated by the government. Although we should know that the goal of rapid and significant expansion of such a program cannot be achieved by government alone. It requires all organizations and individuals, from communities, community, ministries, parastatals, non- governmental organizations, faith based organizations, trade union organizations and development parties to become active in the planning and implementation.
These implementing parties and coordinating bodies will need to be made responsible and accountable for achieving the desired results to which they commit themselves at local, national and regional levels. Government will be needed to strengthen mechanisms for continuous learning through performance monitoring and reporting. The key outcome indicators will be used by all implementing parties and government bodies to monitor performance, the coverage in all regions and in each sector and gaps which need to be filled. Performance will need to be reviewed every year and plans adjusted to ensure that targets are met.
We may need to formalize technical advisory committees and sectoral steering committees to promote greater focus. For example, a structure for just three top levels can be like this;
1. A national committee, being the highest policy decision making body on matters related to child affair. It would be attended by cabinet ministers to ensure that policy and resource mobilization is adequate.
2. National multi-sectoral coordinators committee, to provide leadership for multi-sectoral and regional implementation. Members could be at permanent secretary level and includes equivalent regional and civil society participants. It reviews progress and adapts annual work plans and budgets to give recommendations to the national committee.
3. National executive committee. This could provide the technical leadership and will be responsible for coordinating the detailed implementation of the multi-sectoral response. It’s membership could be that that reflects the hands on experience required to deal with implementation issues.
All these will ensure direct government involvement in the fight against trafficking. So we definitely need government in coordination.
Government is one of the best lobbying partners in case more funds are needed to run the program it can guarantee finances so definitely we need it onboard in terms of coordination.
Now about the second question,
One vital point we have to note is that any attempt to understand the effects of human trafficking must take a long term perspective and this has to be emphasized to government. I will argue that, from modest beginnings, the economic damage caused by trafficking can assume catastrophic proportions over the long run, and thereby threatening the social fabric it’s self which government so desire to maintain.
Government will have to be told that the responsibility for financing the program will be shared with all sections of society. Government will be assured that its commitments to the program will not affect national expenditure and national priorities to a great extent. This is because, a substantial proportion of the programs related expenditure will have to be financed by external grants, international sources, including bilateral sources, the United Nations system, the grant component of the world bank and international non-government organizations. All government needs to do is to define their own policies for guiding the inflow of external resources and complement them with domestically financed initiatives however small they may be.
Governments can have a financial mechanism where each ministry will have to adequately plan and budget for their contribution to the national response. Each permanent secretary as well as the accounting officer, will be responsible for ensuring that their ministry’s work plan and budget adequately finances child trafficking local responses in every constituency appropriate to that ministry’s area of function.
If government starts to incorporate or integrate their child policies, their human trafficking policies within their own budgets and everyday programs and try to raise funds within these frame works, then we will have a cheap program that government can afford and the finance minister will be happy to help.
Although simplistic, this analysis of the fiscal modalities of my suggested plan in a way suggest that the indirect fiscal effects of a comprehensive child monitoring and trafficking prevention program will contribute significantly to the program’s own financing since future generations and former victims in future will contribute to the financing and even still the country will have a bigger workforce as a result of keeping children in a safe environment that encourages education and other aspects of child development for a better future. Note that the indirect fiscal benefits are only part of the broader social and economic benefits arising out of the success of the program and this has to be emphasized to government.
All we have to do is to exercise persuasion in bringing such ideas to the attention of the government, governments are no full unaware of trafficking unless if we explain to them the program we have, and help them draft policies it’s only then that we can influence positive policy reforms and financial commitments.
Our lobby work in the Philippines and Japan on what the Philippine gov't. call the "Overseas Performing Artists," popularly known as entertainers or japayuki (Filipina women working in the clubs in Japan) whose work is mostly hostessing, dohan (afternoon dates), flying booking (the transfer of the women from one club to the other), prostitution, and trafficking started to be more effective when our different networks in the Philippines and overseas also became actively involved on the issue.
This led to the passage of the Anti-Trafficking Law in the Philippines in May 2003 after several years of lobby work. DAWN and our women members actively participated in the congressional hearings and various fora to push for the passage of the law. But inspite of the passage of this very good law, the implementation is very much lacking. The Philippine gov't. continued to send the entertainers to Japan inspite of the reported blatant violations of the rights of the women/trafficking. DAWN initiated meetings with the Government of Japan (GOJ). Last May 2004, the Asia- Pacific Regional Hearing of the Global Commission on International Migration (GCIM) was held in Manila. DAWN staff met with Mr. Shigeki Sumi, Deputy Director General of the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss the situation of our Filipino women entertainers in Japan. Follow- up meetings were held in Tokyo. Various networks, i.e. Philippine Migrants Rights Watch, the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women (CATW-AP) started our active lobby work with the Japanese gov't. as well. Last June 2004, the International Labor Organization-Tokyo (ILO-Tokyo), The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo and Vital Voices organized a conference on Human Trafficking in Asia in Tokyo. DAWN through its Executive Director, Ms. Carmelita G. Nuqui, presented a paper on "The Vulnerabilities of Filipino Women as Potential Trafficking Victims." Representatives of the various agencies of the Government of Japan were also invited, together with other resource persons and participants from Japan and other countries. After this conference, follow-up meetings were held, and a suggestion to visit the Philippines was made. The Inter-Agency Task Force of the Prime Minister's Office Coordination Mechanism on Trafficking in Persons, a nine-member delegation visited the Philippines last September 2004 and met with DAWN and its women members and visited the DAWN alternative livelihood programs for the women victims of trafficking, the Philippine Migrants Rights Watch (PMRW) and with representatives of the different agencies of the Philippine government. Follow-up meetings with DAWN were held in Tokyo and Manila. The members of the Task-Force were impressed with the hollistic approach of DAWN in assisting trafficked women in Japan and made commitments to support DAWN's program. The Task Force also met with the officers of Vital Voices in Washington, DC. The Task-Force also visited Thailand and Colombia. As, a result, the Government of Japan came out with a Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons in December 2004. New rules on the deployment of Filipino entertainers to Japan were implemented starting March 15, 2005.
We learned that recently, the UN Optional Protocol on Trafficking in Persons Especially on Women and Children has been approved by Japan's House of Representatives. It is now awaiting approval at the House of Councilors. Continuing lobby work both local and international is necessary to put pressure on governments to immediately act on issues.
It's so nice to see you here! I think your work is fantastic!
Could you share with the readers the successful lobbying work you've doing in Japan and Philippines? I think most of us would be interested in progress and development in these two countries. Thanks.
May 18 '05, 10:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Response to questions about Safe Space
From: Florrie Burke, Safe Horizon, Senior Director of International Programs, Anti-Trafficking and SOLACE Program for Survivors of Torture
Safe Space is designed for individuals who are ready to meet together in a group and avail themselves of self-empowering activities. Through our Anti-Trafficking Program, we will screen individuals to make sure they feel ready for this experience. Moving from victim to survivor is a process. People need to recognize what has happened to them with all the complexities that involves. A client-centered approach is always foremost in our planning and we want to be sure that our clients make their own choices for what services they want to participate in. The idea of Safe Space is to create a place where clients feel "safe" enough to face both strengths and vulnerabilities. It is not meant to be the kind of safety situation one goes to immediately after leaving a trafficking situation
May 18 '05, 8:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Welcome Center
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Madre Coraje,
I think connecting the welcome center with companies who want to carry out their corporate citizen responsibilities is a great idea!
Besides possible donations to the welcome center, how do companies support the welcome center? Do you have programs that would allow company employees to spend some time with the children? Or for adoption?
If so, what kind of policy is in place to ensure the safety of the children to avoid false adoption?
It's so nice to see Safe Horizon's post here! I'm sure you guys will bring a lot of experience and ideas to this forum.
You mentioned that this "safe space" is for "survivors" of trafficking. Could you let the readers know how you assess whether a person is a survirvor or still a victim. And why not bring them (survivors and victims) all to the safe space? Anything we should be careful about?
I'm sure the "child registration and monitoring system" would be very effective. However, it sounds like a gigantic project that requires enormous resources and manpower.
Does it need government coordination? If so, how would you convince your government to put in these resources?
The rate of human trafficking is growing everyday, with the Third World Countries mostly affected. This is very bad but there seems nothing that can be done to curb this. Millions of dollars have been spent, and really the West doesn't seem much interested again because they somehow see the futility in spending on the Third World Countries: It never generates results. I feel this is because the Third World countries, so-called, have not dimmed it fit to see themselves in a new light. There is over-dependence on Western modes of thinking, on western ideas, western ideologies, western everything. It will do well if we begin to look into ourselves and see why we must love ourselves, and why we must study our things, our environments, our people. This is rigidly attached to us, this racial feeling. Even African-American still feel part of themselves attached to Africa; we who live in Africa actually have all of ourselves attached to it. By neglecting what we are, and striving to absorb some kind of western feeling, which of course will estrange us and make us look down on our kind who haven't gotten this western attachment will make us feel superior unnecessarily and then proceed to use them in enriching ourselves. Let me say here that human trafficking,corruption,etc. are what we can kick out of our system, but improper identification with ourselves split us from our own realities.
STABILITY AND SUITABLE ECONOMY Slave trade began when the africans knew nothing about wat they had in possession. It's richly blessed wit mineral resources and good weather for plantung. But due to greed and selfishness, the kings sold out people in exchange for perfumes and other pleasantries.
The world has changed. It's assumed thet the old days there were no system of economy so we cannot really tell if the economy was good. But it is assumed to be good because everything was easy and sufficient. Politics was then introduced into the world and then most countries began developin and in so doin it has really affect the african communities as a whole. It's difficult for african countries to attain a stable economy or suitable econeomy because most countries are still undeveloped or developing. If we can attain and maintain a good economy,the continent as a whole would grow and become rich thereby making life suitable and bearable by citizens and individuals. If life is not suitable for people they would look forward to leave the country and in so doing they would look for the easiest way and cheaper way which is through human trafficking.
DEEP INVESTIGATIONS ON TRAVELLERS Most investigations are not deep or thorough so that's why it's difficult to curb traffickers. For example,a man travellin out of the country carries like twenty people that are not his family members or relatives along with him. The interpol are suppose to go for thorough investigationas and know the type of business the person is handling and now his bank account,try to know whether it's possible for him to generate such an amount from a job. It's not because he has excess money,they should even search them well because it's the big people that are always involved in such things.
CREATION OF LAWS AND SUPERVISON FROM SUPERIOR COUNTRIES
If laws are created and well administered,it would really help in the curbing of human trafficking.U sing my country as an example, when Queen Victoria of England{R.I.P} in 1851 sent a message to king Kosoko of lagos to stop the slave trading he refused and then She sent troops and there was a little war. The king was dethroned and he's son took over.Then the queen sent the same message and the present king obeyed and the human trafficking was almost dead before the king died and another king took over. The only reason why the human traffickin almost ended was that because king Kosoko's son obeyed and complied wit the law created. In so doing he led by eaxample
ERADICATING CORRUPTION
Corruption is a difficult problem to solve. When it's eaten by country it's difficult to chew swallow ,digest,or even vommit.I t's mostly common in most developing or under developin countries and continents because the citizens and individuals are always wantin to get richer and richer,thereby tryin every means to get money.I n a country where corruption is high, it's difficult to curb or eradicate corruption because it's the top people supporting it and they aren't leading by example.If at all a country wants to eradicate human trafficking it should eradicate corruption and they should start from the rich ones and not the poor ones and the same law mus be applicable to everyone and in so doin no one should be above the law...
Hi Wenchi, apologies for the late response to the discussion board. I have been travelling due to a new assignment and only now find my way to a computer.
To answer your initial question, no the project is not being implemented as I have developed it. Community work is indeed being done by NGOs, often supported by IOs. However, most of the work being done is in a post- trafficking context aiming at preventing re-trafficking. If we exclude awareness campaigns - which often do not have the right preventative focus or clear audience-tailored messages - little is being done at a pre- trafficking level within communities. I believe that the large part of anti-trafficking work in SEE is at the government level. Such work has to be applauded and encouraged to continue because such top level policy changes are fundamental for any future improvements. Yet, I believe that - in parallel - individuals have to be reached on a more personal level through emotional and psychoeducational approaches. This is what the project aims to do. Similarly, from the literature review that I have come across during my research, lots of attention is devoted to making standard recommendations to government agencies or large international organizations for top-down change and improvement. This type of research has been tremendously useful thus far in attaining results in the region. However, I feel that psychosocial studies about behavior, attitudes and interpretation have to be undertaken. What drives a health practitioner to help traffickers victimize women and children? Is it only monetary compensation and power? What are other undelying push factors in individuals that drive them to tolerate, accept and aid traffickers? What about the parents and the children? I believe that answers to these cognitive-behavioral questions would assist policy-makers and IOs when designing new policies to combat trafficking. Unfortunately, most of the SEE trafficking literature I encountered did not go deep into the individual's psyche. Such an approach should be countered by psychological studies of individuals on the demand side which is a big part of the trafficking problem.
I hope I have been able to answer your question. I should have regular computer access from now and promise to reply promptly to future posts. All the best, Annalisa
I am so intrigued by your post. You touched on many issues and I read that in your view, poverty elimination through fair trade is your proposed solution to end human trafficking.
Indeed, while we seek grassroots efforts, we also need strategists to think big.
I would like to pick your brain on the fair/ethical trade issue. It is said that in West Africa, child labor and forced labor is used to support coffee and cocoa production. Consumers often are no aware of all these issues and I tend to believe that most consumers would not want to support slave labor, if they are informed of the production process.
In your view, can any advocacy work be done in this area? And how would you do it? Looking forward to your response.
May 16 '05, 9:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Guerilla Design to End the Slave Trade
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Carolyn,
Thanks for your entry. New York certainly needs a group like this when the city has most resources yet many hidden abuses.
You mentioned that "The tone of the project will be energetic, fun, and purposeful," could you say more or give some examples? I think it'll be very effective if we could package Human Trafficking, the very dark issue, to appeal to the general public who sometimes might prefer a hopeful tone.
How about the meet up group you are organizing in New York? Want to share with the readers?
"HUMAN TRAFFICKING: Western World's Promotion of Trade and Enshrined Poverty Enrichment to Developing Countries" By TAIWO OSENI. HUMAN TRAFFICKING is a facet of poverty problem that touches the rich and the poor. Ours is a world of deeply-enriched global inequalities where developing countries invest $600billion a year on defence, and $300billion in agricultural subsidies, but provide just $56 billion in a year in aid to developing countries.
Within a quarter century, the population of rich countries will grow by 50million people and the population of poor countries will swell by a staggering one and a half billion! Many people will experience poverty and unemployment. Some will leave their families to depart on harzadous journey to rich countries in search of work. This again, is another angle of human trafficking.
Human Trafficking is promotion of trade and enshrined poverty enrichment by the Western World (Developed Countries - G7s) to developing countries.
Trade means food on the table, clothes for the children and roof over your head. So, decisions about how we trade or buy are not only decisions about how we want to live our lives but how other people live their lives too! Trade can make a lot of people a lot of money. It can be the difference between a life of poverty and one of opportunity. It doesn't need to be simply a way for those who are rich to become even richer, it takes place within a just global system,trade has the potential to end human trafficking. Did I hear you ask how?
If Africa could increase its share of world trade by just one percent, it would generate five times more income than the continent currently receives in aid and debt relief.
We see that ending human trafficking, as market opens up, new opportunities emerge for the poor as well as the rich. If fair international trade rules are in place to manage this trade, then prosperity for developing countries can follow. Unfortunately, contemporary worldwide trade, at the heart of globalization, cuts both ways. See how human trafficking is Poverty enrichment for Developing countries.
But it is high time we ended human trafficking via good measures - World trade has the potential to enable governments of developing countries to improve living standards, health care and education. The World Bank estimates that eliminating all barriers of trade in goods will generate between $250billion and $620billion extra global income, up to half of which would go to developing countries in terms of poverty reduction - a facet of human trafficking. This could lift 300million people out of poverty by 2015 thus bringing an end to human trafficking of which poverty is its main cause.
But while the rules that govern International trade favour the strongest and most vociferous countries, the current unfair global trade environment deepens poverty and human trafficking so that it does not simply lead to the survival of the biggest and most powerful.
Also, in ending human trafficking, as far as trading is concerned, Fair trade as well as Ethical Trade is it, globally. Fair Trade is generally about making sure poor producers get adequate returns for what they produce. Ethical trade is more about making sure Labour Standards are respected throughout big global supply chain. Ethical sourcing, for instance, involves a Company taking responsibility for the Labour and Human Rights practices back down for the supply chain to the original producers.
But with Human trafficking, it is an unfair trade. Unfair trade rule means that families don't have enough to eat, can't afford to send their children to school and don't enjoy basic employment rights.
In the globalized world of the 21st century,trade is one of the strongest ties that bind us. If we don't make trade fair, human trafficking and poverty will lead to building of resentment that affect us all.
In ending Human Trafficking, the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) by 2015, the United Nation, (U.N.) Member States have pledged amongst to:
(1) ERADICATE EXTREME POVERTY AND HUNGER - Reduce by half the proportion of people living on less than a dollar ($) a day and those who suffer hunger.
(2)DEVELOP A GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP FOR DEVELOPMENT - Includes developing an open and fair trading system, boosting freedom justice and democracy, helping countries improve their exports, providing more debt relief aid and making vital drugs more easily available, etc.
We see that achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015 is a tremendous challenge facing the International Community and there is a widespread agreement that additional external aid is required to meet it.
New money should go to new performers not just those who are experiencing debt distress.
Financing proposal to achieve the MDGs should be discussed from Central Bankers' perspective. The best solution include sufficient increase in rich countries' foreign aid allocations and more ambitious trade liberalisation.
But such policies seem politically untenable in the short term, even though - according to World Bank estimation, an appropriate conclusion of the current trade round under the auspices of the World Trade Organisation, (WTO), could contribute $350billion a year to developing countries by 2015! Is this not enough to ending human trafficking in developing countries rather than the G7s of this world enriching poverty via human trfficking?
Three ways to secure additional financing for development aid or debt relief: (a) higher taxes; (b) increased indebtedness (that is, higher taxes for future generations); and (c) and/or monetary expansion.
One proposal calls for taxing national and international financial transactions, others call for allocating Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), or for usingt the IMF's gold resources. But none appears desirable
To be effective,any tax on financial transactions would have to be implemented on a global scale, which currently does not seem realistic! Moreover, taxation would increase cost (passed on to the borrowers) and reduce the volum of transactions, thereby fuelling market volatility amid decreasing liquidity.
Allocating new SDRs also is inappropriate. SDRs represents liquidity and can be allocated only if and when there is a "global need", which would currently be difficult to prove given high liquid and "easy" international capital-market conditions.
In any case, new SDR allocation require the support of 85 percent of votes within the IMF's Board, which appears unachievable in the foreseeable future, as major shareholders are opposed! See what I mean, human trafficking will persist because of the imperialists - IMF, World Bank and Western Countries (G7s)
So how can we put an end to human trafficking?
ADVOCACY.
Advocacy is central to the process of international development - it is about trying to become a voice for the people whose voice is not heard, which usually means poor people.
Advocacy is priceless - it is about refusing to forget that so many people in our world live lives that should be so much better. And that we have a responsibility to bring that change about. It is more about raising awareness than raising funds - an awareness that can change ttitudes and in due course, the structures that reinforce poverty enrichment in human trafficking.
Political advocacy is it in ending human trafficking via political engagement - engaging the political process - even going eyeball-to- eyeball with the politicians, decision-makers to represent the views of people who will never get to meet them. It might be:
(i) Signing an e-mail petition : Organised by an aid agency or an individual, lobbyists, etc.
(ii) Campaigning for the rights of poor people: Agreeing to send regular cards to politicians, writing letters to business leaders, calling for improved working conditions for their staff in developing countries, all these go a long way at ending human trafficking.
Let's put a smile on poor people whom the Western World use as unfair trade in promoting trade and enshrining poverty enrichment in developing countries. We all have a right to fair trade in this era of globalization and trade liberalization. A market economy that is not a one-size-fits-all solution ends poverty, the enrichment of its cadet in developing country.
The challenge that has to be put to a naive confidence in free trade to deliver a flourishing environment is a challenge to play the part it wants and needs to play in the global economy.
Free trade doctrine upheld by Western governments as leading to greater over all prosperity, can not serve as a "universal" cure-all for diverse countries.
Let us put an end to human trafficking NOW!
May 13 '05, 19:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: STAR Network in Bosnia and Croatia
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Hi Jill and Chris,
It's great to see you and STAR Network here! One of the things I like most about this network program is its focuses on building civil society capacity and women's empowerment, i.e. prevention and root causes.
Perhaps you could introduce to the readers some specific projects and their impact to prevent Balkan women from being trafficked.
Also, I'm curious to learn how you connect these women, especially when 10 years ago, they did not live in peace. I think this is a remarkable achievement for you, and for these women, to overcome historical burdens and work together to combat trafficking.
I look forward to your response.
May 13 '05, 12:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
extremely urgent
From: Sanu Babu SilwalCentral PresidentSociety of Environmental Journalists-Nepal (SEJ-Nepal) and Editor of Environment News National Weekly
Dear dear Wenchi, Thanks for your response. Yes, you are right that we are looking funders for supporting on our media activities on human trafficking. We are indeed expecting your outstanding cooperation for launching the mentioned media programs in Nepal.
Please suggest that whether you need the proposal for looking the funders or not. If so, please suggest us the scale and confinement of proposal.
We are looking your pivotal role for providing the opportunity for launching the programs on human trafficking in Nepal.
Hoping to hear from you soon.
Warm regards, Sanu Babu Silwal Central President Society of Environmental Journalists-Nepal (SEJ-Nepal) and Editor of Environment News National Weekly Central Office PoBox-13167 Anamnagar, Kathmandu, Nepal www.sej.org.np Phone/fax-0097714257706
May 13 '05, 15:05
(1 ratings / 3.0 average
Croatia AND Bosnia
From: Chris Saenger, STAR Network of World Learning
Hello!
We (STAR Network of World Learning) have just posted our entry (Local Initiatives in Trafficking Prevention in Bosnia and Croatia: "Sister Community" Networks) for the trafficking grant. We wanted to be sure that you all know that our project works in Bosnia and Croatia. It says "Croatia" for the country because that is our mailing address.
Thanks for reading and for any feedback you might offer!
May 13 '05, 9:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: preventing child trafficking in SEE
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Annalisa,
Is the study currently underway or already completed? It sounds like it is being planned, right?
I agree that more studies are needed, and not only for the purpose of understanding the scope of trafficking, but also for better strategies.
Have you done a literature review of trafficking in SEE? In fact, I happen to know that SEE is one of the most studied regions in terms of the trafficking trends, thanks to the OSCE's earlier Stability Pact Task Force on Trafficking in Human Beings and its current Anti-Trafficking Assistance Unit. Recently, the UNICEF and OSCE also jointly issued a study on traffcking in SEE-2004. It's available at http://www.unicef.org/ceecis/media_1566.html
In your view, what is lacking amongst all the studies and reports? I believe if you could identify a few key areas for further research, it would be a very interesting project.
May 13 '05, 9:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Nepal
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Sanu,
Are you looking for joint-work possibilities? Or funding sources? I think it'll be more helfpul if you could specify your questions. If you already have a proposal, I could possibly direct you to some potential funders.
Thank you for your attention.
May 13 '05, 1:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
extremely urgent
From: Sanu Babu Silwal, Society of Environmental Journalists-Nepal(SEJ-Nepal)and
Central President
Dear Wenchi,
We shall be eagerly waiting your response. We are eager to collabrate on human trafficking in Nepal. warm regards Sanu Babu Silwal
Central President
Society of Environmental Journalists-Nepal (SEJ-Nepal)
and Editor of Environment News National Weekly
Central Office
PoBox-13167
Anamnagar, Kathmandu, Nepal
www.sej.org.np Phone/fax-0097714257706
May 12 '05, 19:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: all forms of trafficking
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Reinhard:
Thank you for bringing up the point of addressing all forms of trafficking. While sex trafficking appears to be the focused topic, we should certainly pay attention to trafficking for forced labor.
In fact, you probably already knew about this since you collect studies. The International Labor Organization (ILO) just released a new report yesterday, A global alliance against forced labor. The report estimates that a minimum of 2.4 million people are victims of human trafficking worldwide.
The ILO report is the first one to show that trafficking in human beings generates an estimated 32 billion US dollars in profits ý exceeding the Gross Domestic Product of over 100 countries. Nearly half these profits are made in the worldýs wealthiest countries. And by far the highest sums are made from forced commercial sexual exploitation.
A copy of this report can be found on the ILO website: http://www.ilo.org/public/english/bureau/inf/pr/2005/22.htm
I think this report is of significance and encourage everyone to read it.
Thank you for your questions and feedback. SEE is a fascinating region in transition with lots of potential for concrete structural improvements within the State's mechanisms, but also within the many communities.
The study does not stipulate to categorically prevent child trafficking from happening. It attempts to outline a strategy to alter the existing paradigms of key participants explicitly present in the child's life whom with the guidance and assistance of local NGOs, Int'l Orgs (such as UNICEF, IOM, World Bank) may assimilate concepts of child protection, human rights, and self-improvement into their daily lives for long-term sustainable results.
The analysis of the study conveyed how the deficiencies within the two policy environments (family and community), ranging from poverty and poor education on the parents' side to corruption and misallocation of resources on the community's side, are the key pillars sustaining the vulnerable environment in which the children of the region are growing up.
The policy recommendations hence outline how an Int'l Org could engage in pre-trafficking preventative efforts with local NGOs as their primary partners. The NGOs will be responsible for the implementation of the program activities, the IO will provide more of a technical role.
More specifically, the families and communities in SEE can be mobilized through the following activities:
Assess the level of poverty and education of the selected community to identify families and children that may be at high risk. This assessment will identify the primary target group for preventative intervention.
Assess the level of awareness, professional skills, demographics, and income scales of the selected community. This assessment will provide information about the individual policy environment in which activities have to be implemented.
Improve people's attitudes towards child trafficking through community workshops/roundtables. Equip people with a paradigm based on child protection, human rights, and intolerance for violence. This can also be achieved through collective and individual activities such as psychosocial education and information campaigns.
Enable the participants to feel owners of their new-found paradigm by establishing community committees (uniquely formed of community members) in charge of propelling such paradigm through their own initiatives. Initially, the committees may be formed based on the availability of eager participants/volunteers. Gradually, as participation increases, informal elections may be warranted. Herein lays the long-term self- sustainability of the program. At the beginning, however, there should be close cooperation and exchange between the NGO and the community committee.
Circulate information on an array of socio-economic topics: local, national, and regional labor markets; national emigration laws and immigration laws in Western Europe/USA; procedure to get micro-financing or financial loans to launch private business activities; the recruiting dynamic of trafficking as well as the risks and consequences of being trafficked. Information is power and for isolated women in rural areas this particular task could prove crucial.
Provide vocational training (covering an array of academic as well as technical courses) to adults, especially women; and adolescents, especially those in institutions or coming out of institutions.
Provide support to street children. Place them in "foster" homes composed of particularly well-adjusted families.
Should those not be available (especially in the short term) place them in state institutions but require them to attend certain NGO-led activities in order to tend to their psycho-social skills and ensure their well-being. Should state institutions not be present in the selected community, work with teachers or religious figures to find an adequately safe home for them. If I were in charge of setting up the project, I would focus on Albania, Romania and MOldova, as these are the countries with most trafficking activities involving children. The strategy - however - could be implemented in other countries being somewhat affected by child or women trafficking in SEE.
Looking forward to more discussion and feedback. Annalisa
Thank you for zour answer and for th information about the movie Bucharest Express. I'll try to see it. Regarding the political will from governments of Romania and Moldova I can say that is getting better. There are some structures and there have been done some things. As an exemple the romanina guvernment opened this year nine shelters for victims. Still they did nothing in the field of prevention and they usually move very slow. But comparing with the past 3 years now is much better so we can hope for their support. I have another idea for preventing: a soccer championship. Youngsters really love sport. Just imagine a competition with 4 teams from for bad neighbourhoods. And in every team we schould convice to play a famous sportmen (I don't know now who). And during this small championship players should wear teeshirts with messages like: END Human Trafficking. There can be also a speech about this in the final day. I guarantee that if famous players will accept many-many youngsters will come to see the championship. And, no doubt, many will be potential consumers raffikers. We can in the final day after the final game to have a small concert. Will be like an event designed to end human trafficking!
May 11 '05, 22:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
childtrafficking.com
From: Reinhard Fichtl, Country Director, Swiss Foundation of Terre des hommes
in Nepal
Dear Wenchi I hope more attention will be paid to the nexus of trafficking and modern forms of slavery. It seems that it is the demand for indebted servants that maintains the trafficking industry. The vast majority of children and adolescents enter the ýbusinessý in a situation of debt servitude. These victims are purchased from either local agents or directly from traffickers, who in turn have either abducted the victims by force or deception or have purchased them from family members, community members or employers. In the field of sex trafficking, and this is only an example from India, we know that the victim remains in the brothel under debt servitude until the brothel owner earns 3 to 5 times the purchase price from the girlsý fees from clients.
But we need also to explore the nexus between trafficking and other forms of modern slavery, e.g. bonded labour situation for children, in order to know more about the slave trade mechanism of all forms of trafficking, not only for sex trafficking.Regards Reinhard
May 11 '05, 17:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: conducting research
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Reinhard:
Thank you for explaining the types of collection your digital library has. I think worldwide we are encountering the similar challenge that qualitative and quantitative research on trafficking is insufficient. Certainly, the clandestine nature of human trafficking makes it difficult for researchers to acquire reliable and accurate information.
Since you are seeing publications on this topic on a daily basis, could you identify a few areas or issues that deserve more attention or are most under-explored by researchers?
I loved your idea of having a concert! I think MTV Europe had a very successful campaign last year, EXIT Campaign, on human trafficking. How to incorporate this issue in pop culture for the youth who are at risk of being trafficked is very important. We are seeing UNESCO's pop concert in Thailand, Bollywood in India, and MTV campaign in Southeastern Europe.
On the note of trafficking between Moldova and Romania, have you seen the film, Bucharest Express? It was about the trafficking business and how government corruption is fueling this business in Moldova. I think showing this film in the region would help raise awareness. Of course, since it touches on government corruption and mafia issues, we will need strong support from governments to run a major campaign on this issue. What is your assessment? Any political will from these governments?
Can you elaborate more on what the program might look like? I see that you are trying to start from the community level, which has been recognized as one of the most important strategies in other countries as well.
How do you plan to mobilize familiers and communities in Southeastern Europe? Do you plan to do this through public awareness campaign? Are you focusing on any country? Do you plan to work with any local organizations?
Human trafficking has raised within the last ten years in Romania. And it is even greater in Republic Moldova. Regarding to your question how we can decrease the demand here is my answer: I think we can decrease the demand by understanting better the consumer. I think we need a scientific study on his profile. What are his motivations and values? Why is he ignoring the posible victims and just use them for his pleasure? I think that some factors are: pornography (and I think that many girls from internet are victims, slaves), how is sex promoted by society through movies and other means, how is seen a woman. But theese are just some factors. Decreasing the factors we will decrease the number of consumers. We can also make the profile of the traffiker and speaking with an arrested traffiker we can find the story of becoming a traffiker. Understanting the process we can see what kind of people are "vulnerable" to become traffikers and prevent this becoming. I think that every town ahs several dangerous places (neighbourhoods, bars, night clubs) where the potential consumers and traffikers are. I think we can make events there. As an exemple: the concerts are made in the centre of a town. Why not to use a famouse band running a concert in a bad neighbourhood and in adition to present messeges for stopping human trafficking. Thse same can be done in other places where the consumers and traffikers are. I want to congratulate all those who are dedicated to end human traffikcing no matter the efforts because: Human beings are priceless! I hope my answer will help.
May 11 '05, 5:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
childtrafficking.com
From: Reinhard Fichtl, Country Director, Swiss Foundation of Terre des hommes
in Nepal
Dear Wenchi Greetings from Kathmandu. Our website is a digital library, owned by at least two different organisation and co-owned by a board of editors. Most of the contributions come frome activists in the field, but also researchers. We try to read or understand each report posted on the website. Reports from reputable researchers, ativists and organisations like IOM, ILO or similar ones are posted without hesitation. Others are carefully read. We are claiming that all reports are a result of hard research. Please, understand, that this applies to different levels: Local people in the field carry out hard research but do not have resources like UNICEF or others. Therefore we especially encourage field staff to submit their findings, although they do not always compete with scientific research work. But we feel that as any library we would like to give them a platform to present their honest views & findings. We are especially interested in child trafficking of course, but we are also trying to promote reports of the nexus of modern forms of slavery and trafficking. This was the rason why we spent almost 6 month hard work on developing the structure which is quite unique: all forms of slavery destinations are mentioned in order to provide the complex picture of trafficking. We are updating the website at least 12 times a year but even more often. Presently visitors download in average 20 Mbyte per day documentation, which is a proof that the library is widely used. The website is run by volunteers and no payment is made except for the technical aspect. I hope friends and colleagues continue to submit more papers since it is so important to better understand the smodern slavery system in order to develop impact-oriented projects. Best regards Reinhard
May 10 '05, 23:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Very urgent
From: Society of Environmental Journalists-Nepal(SEJ-Nepal)
Dear Wenchi
Thanks for your response. For your kind reference that the political situation is going to normal position. We think at the moment no more problems for launching the media advocacy programs on human trafficking issues. We can conduct the media programs freely. I do not like to give the brand name civil war in Nepal. Just it is activities of terrorist called Maoist.
In the moment I agree that policy and administration does not work very effectively in the matter.
The vested group and human smugglers getting chance for working in the field freely due to political instability. The government of Nepal does not have time for looking these issues due to the political dispute. I agree that this time media have vital role for awaring the people and enforcing the government in the matter.
So, we would like to conduct the media awareness programs on human trafficking issues.
You are kindly requested for supporting us on media awareness programs in the matter.
Your inspiration and generous support will be more significant for mobilizing the Nepalese media on the issues. As far as i know, for your kind reference the local USAID hasnot program on human trafficking. Hoping to hear from you soon. warm regards Sanu Babu Silwal
Central President
Society of Environmental Journalists-Nepal (SEJ-Nepal)
and Editor of Environment News National Weekly
Central Office
PoBox-13167
Anamnagar, Kathmandu, Nepal
www.sej.org.np Phone/fax-0097714257706
May 10 '05, 11:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: urgent
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Sanu,
It is discouraging to hear about the political turmoil in Nepal and how it might further deconstruct existing anti-trafficking efforts.
Do you think the civil war will increase the trade in human beings? Does the government have any plan to prevent the exodus of its citizens to neighboring countries? I think the media campaign to educate the public about the danger of trafficking is very crucial at this time.
I will also suggest that you contact the USAID's field office for funding possibilities.
It's great to hear from you. Indeed, demand is a very important side of the trafficking problem. Several earlier entries also touched on this aspect.
In addition to public education and awreness raising to curb the demand, do you have any other innovative ideas? I think all of us need to brainstorm on how best to address the demand issue.
May 9 '05, 10:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
urgent
From: Sanu Babu Silwal
Dear Wenchi Thanks for your prompt response.
I am indeed happy to get your response towards media advocacy on human trafficking in Nepal. As far as the role of Nepal government on human trafficking not so much fruitful and effectiveness due to lacking commitments and far sighted vision and planning. Right now, due to the political dispute and instability, such issues becoming in the shadow in Nepal. So, the Nepalese media has pivotal role for awaring the people, coordinating among the civil societies and enforcing the government for implementing the policy and formulating the proper vision in the matter. So, we are eager to launch the media advocacy on such social enviornmental issues on human trafficking. for instance: conducting the radio and television programs, training and orientation to the local journalists for making them capable in their writing in the matter, publications, interactions and seminars with participating to the government officers civil society and media, features writing by involving of journalists and media exposures programs etc. Due to the limitation of financial resource, all mentioned media tools will be in in the dream. So we would like to request you for supporting us by morally and financially. If so we can develop the full proposal with mentioning the detail of the programs soon. We think your suggestions and guiding will be more significant for launching the media advocacy programs on human trafficking in Nepal. warm regards Sanu Babu Silwal
Central President
Society of Environmental Journalists-Nepal (SEJ-Nepal)
Thank you for your entry. Out of curiosity, I went to your website and found out all the wonderful things you and SEJ-Nepal have been doing for environmental conservation and poverty alleviation.
Are you thinking about using the same method for human trafficking in Nepal?
In my view, the media plays two roles for society: educator and watchdog.
Is the Nepalese government active on counter-trafficking issues? Or the awareness level remains low and the society needs education? What is the situation in Nepal? Do you have any plan in mind to address this complex issue?
Thanks alot Wenchi. It's really very thoughtful of you to notify me about WOTCLEF. As a matter of fact, I've always heard of WOTCLEF but I've never given it a thought to find out about their activities let alone colaborating with them. But, as you've brought this to my notice, I will find out more about them, decide whether or not to colaborate with them and get back to you concerning my decision.
You are exactly right. Cents of Relief takes a public health perspective largely due to the failure of healthcare delivery in India's red light areas (where many trafficked women and girls reside). In fact, this summer, I have been fortunate to be awarded a fellowship from Yale Medical School to assess the HIV/AIDS risk perceptions of men clientele of women in prostitution in the red-light area. This project will be done with the help of Apne Aap Women Worldwide (AAWW). We believe the information gathered from this study will better prepare us to implement a pilot intervention to reduce the transmission among women in prostitution, many of whom have been trafficked.
Currently, we increase awareness about trafficking to the general public through our website. Yet, Rx Healthy Solutions will be a step towards disseminating this knowledge among trafficked victims. Furthermore, the technical skills acquired by using this program will help empower trafficked victims to the point that some may be able to find other vocations to leave behind the prostitution.
Much of our ability to mobilize students came from them reading about Cents of Relief, whether on the web or newspapers, and inquiring what they could do to help the cause. Our initial efforts at the University of Florida started with Rina and me recruiting student-athletes to advocate our mission. After building up a support base, we turned to professors such as Donna Davis to have their students develop projects for Cents of Relief. We have been lucky to find students all over so eager to end human trafficking.
We deliver the results of our programs to partner NGOs, such as AAWW and Committed Communities Development Trust, that endeavor to stop human trafficking and help women in prostitution. Thanks for telling us about the platform that Changemakers has in South Asia. We hope to learn more about that.
Best,
Anup
May 8 '05, 9:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Cents of Relief Rx Healthy Solutions
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Anup,
It's always good to see the younger generation involved in this anti- trafficking movement. I understand that you come from the public health perspective and focus on HIV/AIDS victims.
I think this community generally feels that if possible, we should get all these women and girls out of the exploitative situation as soon as possible. So in addition to providing the basic necesities of life to these women and their children, does Cents of Relif provide information about alternatives and encourage them to leave? Or do you have any plan to do so? What would they be?
I am also very interested in how you mobilize the student community to support your work and how you deliver your programs in India? Do you go to India in summers? Do you have any partner organization that helps you in India or Nepal? The changemakers community is quite active in South Asia and this platform might help you connect with them.
May 8 '05, 9:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: www.childtrafficking.com
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Reinhard:
Glad to see your entry here. I actually mentioned www.chiltrafficking.com earlier in this discussion board. I am very impressed with the information you have compiled for this website.
How do you select what information to be put on the web and what not? You mentioned that that all reports and studies are founded on hard research. Do you have a procedure in place to evaluate the validity of the studies? How often do you update the website? Have you encountered difficulty in getting updated information?
Hi Wenchi and the Changemaker Community, Cents of Relief is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that endeavors to help the AIDS infected victims in the red-light areas of India by gathering sufficient funds to be used for providing an education for the children of women in prostitution, implementing preventive measures against the disease and trafficking of adolescent girls, and giving women in prostitution and their children access to the basic necessities of life. My friend Rina and I co-founded the organization almost two years ago as college undergraduates. We have been fortunate as volunteers from other colleges have founded Cents of Relief chapters increasing awareness about human trafficking and helping with fundraising efforts in their communities
This software is being targeted at all populations at-risk of human trafficking. Many people in rural areas do not have computers and this is one gap in the capacity of our program. Cents of Relief hopes that through our fundraising efforts we will be able to provide computers to those NGOs that are lacking computers. Yet, more and more NGOs with access to computers are reaching out to these rural areas, especially in villages where trafficking remains high (e.g., Nepal-India border).
Since many of the potential victims do have a formal education, the software will be developed using graphic-based information. It will be a graphical user interface integrating voice (in the specific language of the area) to ensure that even illiterate individuals can reap the benefits of our program.
Thank you and look forward to interacting with all of you.
Best, Anup
May 7 '05, 18:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Rx Healthy Solutions
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Anup,
Good to hear from you! The Rx Healthy Solutions software sounds really innovative. Victims or potential victims would learn about not only trafficking and health related issues, but also new skills to operate the computer to acquire employment. Sounds like one stone two birds.
Considering that many people from rural areas do not even have computers, is this software targeting metropolitan residents? Also, what kind of information will be provided in this software? Can you elaborate a bit more on that? Will the information be text or picture based since some of the victims or potential victims might not receive much formal education?
In further response to Wenchi's comments, may I advise stakeholders, especailly local NGOs, that, in persuading their governments, they should be specific and measurable and compelling in their strategies. For instance, the Nigerian government has been implementing preventive as well as curative strategies to stem and ultimately eliminate human trafficking. The establishment of various Poverty Alleviation Programmes, encouragement of enrolment into primary schools, improvement in health care delivery are some of the preventive activities which NGOs should study and see where they could collaborate.
Government has also empowered law enforcement agencies to arrest and prosecute, while shelters are being built for the rehabilitation of rescued victims who undergo vocational trainings before they are re-united with their families. These are some areas where NGOs should explore.
First, a responsible and responsive government should know that human trafficking is anti-development. Human trafficking not only disenfranchises and debases victims, but breeds a society of social depressives, semi-illiterates and many others who readily descend to crime, prostitution and become social misfits. Human trafficking plants a seed of social degeneration and national retrogression and truncates the full flowering of tomorrow's leadership.
Criminal rings and agents involved in human trafficking serve to pervert societal values, and with their enormous wealth which they sometimes launder, can threaten the security of individuals and of nations. They must be stopped. It is a known fact that human trafficking contributes to the spread of HIV and AIDS, impaired knowledge, loss of self esteem and emotional insecurity, apart from giving the country a bad image. These are few justifications why the scourge must be eliminated globally by all reasonable peoples and governments.
Nigeria is in the second tier of countries with demonstrated commitment to meeting the minimum standards on eliminating human trafficking, according to the U.S. This means that although the country is striving and complying, it is yet to achieve the minimum standards on trafficking. The first tier consists of countries which have fully complied, while the third category are those which neither complies nor demonstrates a significant effort to comply.
To convince government therefore, all the above examples, (and others) should be cited. A recalcitrant country (I doubt) could be reported to a relevant world body which should classify such country into the 1st, 2nd or 3rd category. The media MUST sufficiently be sensitised and carried along for the desired impact.
Democracy is all about good governance and ensuring that govenrment contributes to improving the quality of life of its people, otherwise that government should vacate.
Thanks.
May 6 '05, 2:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
1098 Calling...
From: Lara Shankar, Program Coordinator - PR&D, CHILDLINE India Foundation.
Dear Wenchi, Thank you for your comments. Responding to your queries...
CHILDLINE is a 24 hour 'helpline' for children in need of care and protection. It was started by a dynamic woman namely Jeroo Bilimoria in 1996 in Mumbai, India. In a developing country like India, where state mechanisms are unable to reach out to children in crisis situations, CHILDLINE provides that crucial link by physically reaching out to children. CHILDLINE started as an experimental project of the Department of Family and Child Welfare, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS). In May 1999 a partnership with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, to replicate the CHILDLINE service nationally, resulted in the formation of the CHILDLINE India Foundation (CIF).
CHILDLINE's success in India lies in its ability to merge grass roots micro level intervention with information technology and telecommunications to make the service an efficient link between the child and the systems.
CIF is the think tank of the CHILDLINE network. It provides vital behind the scenes support to the CHILDLINE service across the country. It is responsible for expansion of CHILDLINE, ensuring quality standards, research, documentation, and child protection advocacy.
CHILDLINE has grown into the largest child protection movement in India working in partnership with 158 organisations in 20 states. It is the only helpline that offers comprehensive child protection services. It serves as a link between children, child protection voluntary agencies and the State.
CHILDLINE functions through a network of NGOs, academic institutions, the corporate sector and the allied systems. Structure of CHILDLINE: CHILDLINE Advisory Board (CAB), comprising senior level functionaries from the allied systems, NGOs, concerned individuals and media. It is the policy making body for CHILDLINE at the city level and it undertakes periodic review of CHILDLINE. The Nodal Organization, essentially an academic institution ensures coordination, training, research, documentation, awareness and advocacy at the city level; The Collaborative Organization, essentially a voluntary agency housing the 24x7 call service for children. It responds to calls on 1098, provides emergency intervention, links children to services for ultimate rehabilitation, conducts awareness and outreach programmes and documents every call that comes into CHILDLINE. The Support Organization, responds to calls referred by the collaborative organization and conducts awareness and outreach programmes. Resource Organizations, are centres for referring children from CHILDLINE for long-term rehabilitation. They also participate in outreach and awareness programs for CHILDLINE.
Currently operational in 65 cities of India spread across 20 states, with another 20 in the pipeline and a vision to reach out to every child in distress in each city/district of India, it aims to be operational in all 596 districts of India by 2020.
Regarding the number of calls received, nationally CHILDLINE has responded to over 7 million calls till date. We receive calls from children and concerned adults. Children call 1098, which is the toll free number for CHILDLINE across the country, for emotional support and guidance, shelter, repatriation, medical aid, rescue from abuse, sponsorship etc. Children also call CHILDLINE when they need a caring listener...to just speak to someone.
CHILDLINE provides telephone counselling and also physically reaches out to children making sure that they are available for children at all times - day and night.
The CHILDLINE crisis team across the country comprises 1200 members supported by a network of over 5000 child/youth volunteers. At the centre coordinating the whole operation is the CIF team comprising 32 members.
Regarding documentation, calls received by CHILDLINE 1098 generate rich data. It is processed by the Policy Research and Documentation team at CIF. ChildNET is CHILDLINEýs software programme that connects each call center to a central server in CIF. This software programme captures information received from each call, analyses it and presents reports. The CIF team was also instrumental in documenting the Draft Norms for Enhancing Credibility in the Voluntary Sector in India. CIF has played a very active role in discussions at the national level prior to the formulation of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000. And to our credit, CHILDLINE is the only voluntary agency, mentioned by name in the revised Juvenile Justice Act of 2000, as an authorized agency for producing children in need of care and protection before the Child Welfare Committees and has been asked to function as a catalyst in the implementation of the Act. Over the years the Government of India has reposed its faith in CIF and entrusted full responsibility for achoring the CHILDLINE service in India.
May 5 '05, 12:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Women's Interlink Foundation
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Tina,
Thank you for sharing your practices. Community building is certainly an effective trafficking prevention measure. Your community building approach is fascinating. I am particularly interested in how you start from designing the community development to creating a common value in the community. Can you give an example so people could see what the model looks like in reality?
May 5 '05, 10:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Multi-stakeholder Approach
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Buki mentioned NAN's (News Agency of Nigeria) collaboration with international governmental organizations, non-governmental organizations, and the Nigerian government.
This multi-stakeholder approach appears to a key to success not only in Nigeria, but also in the anti-trafficking movement in general. But we also know that it is a challenge to initiate the partnership.
Can some of you let us know how you approach and persuade the government that human trafficking is an important issue and that immediate action must be taken, considering we are all NGOs?
I think this discussion will help many more NGOs who have difficulty convincing their governments to take this issue seriously.
May 5 '05, 9:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: CHILDLINE
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Kajol,
I am so glad to CHILDLINE's entry. I've heard a lot about the wonderful work you are doing in India.
In addition to the information you provided, could you tell us more about the hotline? I think people would be really interested in learning about how you set up the system and how you respond to calls.
What is the number? How do you advertise your number to reach potential victims? How do you respond when a call comes in? How do you follow-up on calls?
First, it is out of place to talk about enacting a law on human trafficking in Nigeria when at least a law has been enacted and operational. The "Trafficking In Persons (Prohibition) Law nforcement And Administration Act of 2003, has been put in place by the federal government which has also created an agency called NAPTIP, or National Agency for Prohibition of Traffic in Persons", to enforce the law, among others, owing to the enormity of the problem and the concerns by the leadership. Nigeria has also enacted a Child rights Act (2002), a derivative of the convention on the rights of child which the country was a signatory to in 1990. These apart, Nigeria has also ratified ILO conventions to protect working children such as those of minimum wage, medical examinations of young persons, but most importantly, convention 182 on the elimination of worst forms of child labour, including human trafficking. All these are meant to ensure the survival, development, protection and participation of the child who matures into an adult.
Concerning WOTCLEF, we in NAN have been collaborating in its activity, as well as activities of similar NGOs. In particular, I was a member of the Advocacy Group which developed a `National Advocacy Strategy for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labour' by WOTCLEF in 2004. (WOTCLEF is Women Trafficking and Child Labour Eradication Foundation, founded by Titi Abubakar, the vice president's wife). We also collaborate with UNICEF, International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and USAID.
As a member of the National Childrights Implementation Committee, the International Society for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (ISPCAN), and its African affiliate, ANPPCAN, I ensure that human trafficking is accorded the highest priority in our model project to diminish and eliminate child labour and child trafficking in the country. The project is in collaboration with ILO-IPEC, and I am the coordinator. In January, (2005), I participated as a resource person at the San Diego conference (USA) on child and family maltreatment, during which I informed the audience that the media, as change agents, can play a crucial role in child survival, development and protection if the practitioners are well informed.
As part of our social and constitutional responsibility, we shall sustain our efforts of networking and collaboration within and outside the country, with relevant stakeholders, until human trafficking is eliminated. NAN is established by the Nigerian government, and the project has in-built capacity for sustainability. Activities are already in place, and will constantly be updated to sustain the project, although funding is infinitessimally little.
May 3 '05, 16:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Strategies in Nigeria
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights program manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Buki, Olowojaiye, and Engr:
Thank you for your posts and entries. You have all touched on similar strategies to educate the public through the media. My question to you all is: what do you plan to do after the media campaign? I think Engr mentioned something about pursuing a case or lobbying to enact anti- trafficking laws. Can Engr tell the readers more about what the case is or what the laws might look like?
Have you heard about the Women Trafficking and Child Labor Eradication Foundation (WOTCLEF) founded by the second lady of Nigeria, Mrs. Amina Titi Atiku Abybakar? It sounds interesting that an influencial woman in your country is actually involved in this work. Have you thought about collaborating with her?
May 2 '05, 7:05
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Media Training to eliminate human traficking
From: Buki Ponle, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Asst. Editor-In-Chief & Head, Health, Population & Environment Desk.
I thank Wenchu Yu Perkins on issues raised with regard to my proposal In 2000, my organisation, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) began a project in collaboration with UN Population Fund (UNFPA), to forge partnership with the media to sustain awareness on population and development issues. I am coordinating that project in which we are working with three training institutions, by integrating population and development issues in their curricula. I mentioned this briefly in the proposal submitted, but not in detail owing to space constraint. So it is very pertinent to do this during the sensitisation of mass communication students. Nigeria is a consumer, supplier, and transit country of human trafficking, and UNICEF estimates that about 15 million children are vulnerable, out of the more than 60 million children in a population of 130 million people. Media perception on human trafficking in my country was low, while the level of reportage was perfunctory and at best sensational. (This was a research study I conducted in 2003) With the start of a model of the media project few months ago in which we directly enlisted media support, the reportorial landscape has changed, through the application of some of the strategies listed in my proposal. Stakeholders striving to eliminate human trafficking should work continuously with the media, which can make or mar any programme, depending on their perception and levels of commitment. Through sensitisation, the media in my country are now more prepared to eliminate human trafficking. And this can work in other countries. Thank you. Yours Sincerely, Buki Ponle.
Thank you for the submission of your organization to the contest. It sounds like your work is tremendously important in shining a spotlight on traffickers' activites. It must be very challenging, however, to use this community-based reporting model if law enforcement is not able to be an effective partner. Do you believe you are able to rely on law enforcement to follow through with investigation and prosecution of the traffickers, even if reports are made? If not, due to corruption or other factors, this presents a significant strategic obstacle to achieving systemic change that will impact the market dynamics of low risk/high profit for the traffickers. How will your model address the key component of ensuring greater law enforcement cooperation, lack of corruption, and prosecutions, such that the reporting can have an ultimately punitive effect on the traffickers? How will this law enforcement component be implemented on a systemic level? Does it require new laws, new funding, specialized units, or increased local or international pressure?
My second question is to what degree has this program already been implemented, or is it largely in its initial stages at this time?
Derek Ellerman, Polaris Project, Co-Executive Director
April 29 '05, 16:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Let's Jam Human Trafficking
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Aanti-Trafficking and Human Rights program manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Aprill:
This sounds like a very interesting idea. How should the song be made since human trafficking is a very dark and heavy subject? Do you have singer in mind? Are you thinking of a group of singers or just one? How would the non-profit agency use the 15% of the profits?
April 29 '05, 15:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Regarding Roshani Kothari's questions
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Aanti-Trafficking and Human Rights program manager, Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear All,
Roshani of OneWorld US just asked many good questions, I am pasting her questions again for more discussion:
Does it make more sense to you to devote efforts to prosecuting traffickers, curtailing demand, or helping potential victims to avoid being trafficked? What about our societies might need to be changed to ensure that people are less vulnerable to trafficking networks? For some women in poor countries, prostitution may be their only means of making a living. What do you think about their options and how NGOs can best assist them? How can NGOs better address the corruption that fuels the trafficking trade? Should trafficked victims have rights to stay in the countries to which they have been trafficked? Why or why not and under what circumstances? What kind of programs addressing gender equity would make a difference to combat the trafficking of young women and girls?
Yes, the media plays a vital role in all societies and all issues. There are many aspects for the media to intervene in this egregious violation of human rights. I think New York Times Nick Kristof's articles on trafficking in Cambodia certainly raised a lot of attention in the US.
In your opinion, what should be included in the training curriculum for journalists, in addition to the issue? Should we sensitize the reports?
Perhaps as a journalist, you could also provide some tipping points for those who advocate for victims to appeal for more media attention. How should we approach the media to get their attention to human trafficking?
In addition, There are a number of factors which make a survivor an activist. Though socio-economic rehabilitation is very important, creating a sense of self-respect, dignity, and social status makes the difference in the survivor's lives. The simple factor is that survivors always be striving for social and legal justice against the atrocities happened on them. Secondly, they need someone who really accompany them as soulmates in midst of all social challenges on the way of their reintegration into the society. Removing the guilt consciousness is also possible when we extend our support through non-judgemental means. For most of the people, recognising themselves with the survivors of trafficking has been an issue, which they think would hamper their social image. In our experience, the activists have come out of the survivors, only because of our personal identity with the survivors on the public arena fighting for their socio-legal justice. Due to this struggle, lot more people are changing their pre-conceived thoughts and joining our campaign.
Mainstreaming the survivors has been a priority of our activism. 14 years ago the first survivor whom we had met had become a distinguished social activist who had created an environment for further activism. Radhamma who succumbed to the deadly blows of the gangster is still the inspiration for all our work. Like her we have a series of activists from the survivors group. No professional social workers can match Jayamma, Nagamani, Leelamma, Saraswathi, and their followers. SOme of the girls are also working for residential programs at Odanadi. Odanadi provides them periodical support which includes training, exposure, field work, legal and medical assignments. A bunch of young survivors are all set to become social activists at Odanadi, who are gaining new dimensions of activism, education, exposure etc. Along with our experience, the professionals and concerned friends and volunteers are also contributing a lot towards this goal.
When you take the online quiz on human trafficking or share your comments, you will be entered into a raffle to win a $25 gift certificate from Amazon.com. To take the quiz or post comments, visit the OneWorld Perspectives ezine at http://us.oneworld.net/section/us/perspectives/1/humantrafficking
Understanding Human Trafficking & How You Can Get Involved http://us.oneworld.net/section/us/perspectives/1/humantrafficking OneWorld Perspectives gives greater depth to global issues that you care about, provides an overview of the work of the non-profit community on selected topics, and shares ways that you can make a difference.
This issue focuses on the topic of human trafficking, and particularly its impact on young women and girls. Learn about how the international community--often led by the efforts of non-governmental organizations--are taking steps to raise awareness of this international crime, to more effectively prosecute traffickers, and to better protect victims. http://us.oneworld.net/section/us/perspectives/1/humantrafficking
Find out how you can get involved to help stop trafficking, and take a quiz or share your comments for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to Amazon.com!
Hereýs Some ýFood for Thoughtý on Trafficking:
Does it make more sense to you to devote efforts to prosecuting traffickers, curtailing demand, or helping potential victims to avoid being trafficked? What about our societies might need to be changed to ensure that people are less vulnerable to trafficking networks? For some women in poor countries, prostitution may be their only means of making a living. What do you think about their options and how NGOs can best assist them? How can NGOs better address the corruption that fuels the trafficking trade? Should trafficked victims have rights to stay in the countries to which they have been trafficked? Why or why not and under what circumstances? What kind of programs addressing gender equity would make a difference to combat the trafficking of young women and girls?
April 28 '05, 12:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Missing persons' families support center
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Aanti-Trafficking and Human Rights program manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Ona,
Thank you for getting back to me with more information. It sounds like a very interesting project and I would really like to learn more.
What would be your recommendations to the government regarding increasing employment for victims of trafficking or potential victims of trafficking?
Lithuania's economy is growing fast but the issue of unemployment is still a challenge, commonly shared in the Baltics area. How would you convince the government to take care of this particular population, while societal attitude towards them remains negative?
This is a very important question to all of us who do advocacy work to combat human trafficking. Your thoughts would be extremely valuable to our work. I look forward to hearing from you.
Again, thank you for sharing with us your work. I think your method trully helps to empower the victims, and help them to become survivors.
I am curious to know if any of the survivors become activists? Does your organization provide any training or assistance to encourage them? If not, why? If yes, could you describe what your program is?
April 28 '05, 5:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
reply
From: Missing persons' families support center
Dear Wenchi,
Below are our answers to your questions. 1. Lithuanian government only announces information to our citizens about free employment positions abroad, what language is needed, what are the most needed professions in other countries. But there is no NATIONAL strategy on this topic. And so the Government is rather passive in this sphere. 2. Actually this written Project is a pilot one in Lithuania and so there is no practice in this field. No NGOs implement Project and plan strategy for the employment of victims of trafficking and potential victims of trafficking. In the frame of this Project we will provide recommendations to the government about the means for the increasing employment of victims of trafficking and potential victims of trafficking in the country. Not long ago we conducted NATIONAL sociological poll about the attitudes of our society (journalists, employers and other members of the society) towards victims of trafficking. It showed that our society is rather negative or indifferent about the problems of victims of trafficking. So we need to search for proper mechanisms to motivate employers to hire victims of trafficking. 3. Surely, there is a need of cooperation with the authorities due to this question as it is difficult to make changes at the national level only with nongovernmental efforts. So we plan to organize seminars, international conferences, and round table with state officials in order to influence their attitudes towards employment strategy in Lithuania. Moreover, recommendations about improvement of employment of victims of trafficking would be sent out to them. 4. We plan to include job offers in Lithuania mostly. We will check if job in a foreign country is legal and safe and only after that we will announce work positions at our virtual job data base. After implementation of this pilot model we would be able to give recommendations to other countries for using it too.
Thanks for your comment. I am extremely sorry for not responding to the queries raised since I was busy in handling cases and that should be the priority too.
As far as my intervention is concerned, it has not become a big burden for me, since I consider the girls on a non-judgemental basis and with equal opportunity and self-respect. As I understand them, they are searching for someone around, on whom they can rely on non-hesitantly. These unconventional ways of counselling are not only stress relieving but more humane than the other ways, which normally make a difference between a counsellor and a cousellee. In fact the counsellor does not exist physically but works in disguise.
I have been utilising not only traditional dance and music, but also painting and sculpture, martial arts, meditation, yoga, outings (picnics, cycling, trekking, etc), adventure sports, terracota (involving with clay)....etc.
The promotion of any good hobby is a good stess reliever for the traumatised person. Along with all the above mentioned forms, I am still finding the possible unconventional methods.
The main difference is that there is utmost freedom to make choices....and that is what is making a difference in the lifestyle of the survivors. Unlike in conventional counselling, compulsion is missing here. Options are more and you can expect the person in one or other way to be occupied and to find relief.
I do agree that there are more challenges in this process. but it does not go alone but is always accompanied by counsellors and medication if required. But so far, I could able to keep medicaton away from the survivors who are attending different therapies and it is amazing to see them building their personality on their own, slowly but steadily, stage by stage.
For example, for this summer, I have designed a therapy for the survivors, and as many as 25 girls are going to be cycling from Mysore towards the villages for 20 days! They will cycle upto 30 kms per day and spend a good amount of time with the strangers (villagers), understanding them, the culture, the good and the bad, food varieties, social barriers, love and affection, environment..etc. They will have to go to a place without any intimation and they will have to find the people , shelter and food on their own. Some of our staff are also with them but it is the girls and not the staff members who are putting their energy to convince the society.
Some of the therapies they had earlier are also helping in this exercise. On the way, they will do a lot of trekking, crossing the waters, meeting different communities like Tibetians, nomads, tribals in the forest, and so on. After 20 days I am very much sure that they will aquire a different personality and build up a positive attitute about the society. It cannot be achieved through conventional counselling. It is joyful too.
With all given set of problems (psychological), it is possible for the people who are of understanding nature, patient enough to listen to the survivors, who can be non-judgemental by nature , skilled in some art forms, and who can be delivering the survices on ethical basis...but joyfully.
Kindly feel free to send your questions to me.
With regards, Stanly
April 26 '05, 14:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Virtual Job Database
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Aanti-Trafficking and Human Rights program manager,
Vital Voices Global Partnership
Dear Ona,
I agree that there needs brokerage between employers and employees who are potential trafficking victims. I have a few quetsions about your "virtual job database."
One of the challenges of regulating migrant labor is "brokerage." Many young people attempt to find employment overseas on the Internet but fall victim to human trafficking. Therefore, countries sending a large number of migrant labor usually have a government office responsible for related matters.
What do you think about the government's role in brokering oversea employment for its citizens? How about having NGOs like yours to be the employment broker and provide trafficking information? Or, perhaps NGOs could work with the government together to do this job? Are the jobs in your databse international or local?
April 24 '05, 19:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Awareness creates systemic impact
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, anti-trafficking program manager, Vital Voices Global
Partnership
Dear Ananya and Derek,
I think raising public awareness has many purposes, including one that is targeted towards potential victims and their community; the other is targeted towards potential Good Semaritans who might help to identify victims and help with their rescue.
Ananya's theater play is to educate potential victims and their family members to prevent them from being trafficked. But in destination countries, such as the United States, raising public awareness would help good semaritans be more alerted to abnormal situations. Therefore, public awareness campaigns need to be designed for at least the two different audiences.
It is definitely important to raise public awareness. Derek is also right that he wants to see more proactive action, not just passively receiving information about trafficking. I think we need to start from learning about trafficking, then turn our knowledge into action. But if we all know about trafficking but do not do anything about it, we should feel shame.
Thanks for your interest. Here are my responses to your queries :
Effective communication has the following stages - I say, - Listen, - understand and - Come Forward. -- meaning the community or target group. The issue is thus not merely raising awareness and establishing contact points but ensuring "involved contact." Let us go by a story - A gentleman comes to a village one day and starts living there and says he works in town in garment industry, in 6 months he is a familiar face and his politeness impresses many villagers, when he approaches a girl's father about marriage and that too without dowry, girl's parents are thrilled and informs everyone including Panchayat and the girl got married and they went back to town. After 4 months, the couple is missing. After 7 years, while doing a research on the missing girls, in one such home in one district, the girl was found and she narrated how she was sent to Nepal from Kolkata and -- When this is enacted through the theatre using local language and dialect in a village, it catches everyone's eyes and Interactive theatre ensures that the role which everyone could have taken, can be discussed - like checking whereabouts of the guy, sending someone to his office and last staying address to check the existence - Panchayat could have taken a positive role, by doing a cross verification and involving Police Station. So, if community including Panchayats were aware then there could have been much more community led vigilance and this could have prevented the case like this
Brief study at few rehabilitation homes showed that a large number of trafficked cases were due to ignorance on the possible cause
I would like to share with you another example - Dept of Health, Govt of Jharkhand retained our services to do awareness campaign on Routine Immunization at 4 Blocks in East Singhbhum district in Nov-Dec 04. Before going to our target blocks (Ghatshila-Bahragora-Chakulia zone), we heard that there is a strong resistance to immunization. After reaching to the blocks, we realized that a key cause of low immunization coverage was complete ignorance. It was after a long time that someone (our field team) had actually reached these backward areas, were talking in the language of the people and listening to them and answering them. We stayed there for more than a month and community response in the next catch up round was very good - people think we have done magic, we think we just did our work.
I don't think that awareness generation will dramatically create an impact on the market force. However, if the community is vigilant including the lowest level of Governance unit, then with time there will be an impact and - things will change. No one wants to be sold off, or get raped, no one wants to become a sex worker, but everyone wants to get married, everyone wants to earn, everyone wants to go out and see world - No girl likes to see that due inability to pay dowry her marriage is not becoming reality - so, these are the cases where vigil society plays role. Theatre as communication tool with a two pronged strategy of using street theatre shows as information dissemination tool in edutainment way and workshop with community members involving Panchayats, School Masters, Women's forms, SHGs, Police Stations will ensure reducing this evil in the society.
Once the occurrence has happened, the issue is complex. The girl doesn't want to go back to village. Before the occurrence, the girl never wants to go for it.. so awareness will play the most vital role.
Besides awareness on the issue, awareness on opportunities and rights play important role. Poverty is indeed a crucial issue, and this factor plays a critical role on these issues. We are working with Self Help Groups formed with poor village women. We are sharing the success stories, developing SHG members communication skill, creating market linkage. Goal is to help them to earn and that in turn will reduce poverty and that will work as a positive catalyst towards creating an environment where daughter's marriage is not the primary factor of relief of the parents and the parents can start be proud of their daughter's success. We have started working in 4 blocks of Purba Medinipur and North 24 parganas in developing these SHGs with Zilla Parishads and when we brought them to Kolkata where they are supposed to interact directly with buyers, we saw the positive changes. So these women, however burdened by poverty, do have a strong zeal to live a better life - the need is to educate and empower them to manage their lives better.
I had been waiting for an entry like yours. I'm glad that you mention the unconventional ways to help victims recover. I've seen survivors empowered through dancing. It was amazing. Not only did the survivors find peace in dancing, they are also empowered in the process and are now dancers. I've also seen therapy through drawing.
You mentioned the challenge you are facing both within and outside of your organization. Can you explain why and what are they? Do you think there's a way to comprimise both?
April 22 '05, 9:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Using Theatre as a Vehicle
From: Derek Ellerman, Polaris Project, Co-Executive Director
Dear Ananya,
Thank you so much for the submission of your organization to the contest. It seems like a great strategy for informing vulnerable people while getting around the usual limitations of newspaper ads and other mediums.
Two strategic challenges in raising awareness of vulnerable populations are: 1) Many people may be aware of risks of using brokers or send children away, but choose to take them because of lack of other opportunities locally. Awareness itself does not address the underlying push factor for taking these risks, though it does certainly help facilitate a more accurate assessment of risk. How important do you believe it is to combine awareness-raising with other programs to directly reduce the factors that encourage informed or misinformed risk taking? 2) In terms of the overall criminal industry and the market dynamics that drive it, raising awareness helps protect many vulnerable people, but how dramatically does it upset the market forces? Will traffickers who are profiting off the demand simply recruit from others in vulnerable situations, only being marginally inconvenienced? Or do you believe the impact is greater such that it will alter the dynamics of the system in that region?
I can see that your organization also has other impacts in addition to raising awareness, such as increasing reports to police, building relationships with government, and so on. Could you elaborate more on these other activities and their impact?
Derek Ellerman, Polaris Project, Co-Executive Director
April 22 '05, 9:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Info Sharing Website
From: Derek Ellerman, Co-Executive Director, Polaris Project
Dear Bruce,
Thanks for the submission of your website plan to the contest. As a fellow developer of an information website on trafficking, I've always had questions about the actual impact of such sites. While the sites can help raise awareness and provide referral lists or training or other documents, I wonder about the practical capacity of these sites to impact systemic change for a country or region, absent other programmatic activities that more directly reduce profits for traffickers or increase risk, etc. How will your site achieve systemic change or does it need to be combined with other programs to reach this level of impact?
Derek
April 21 '05, 17:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re : Using Theatre as a vehicle
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dear Ananya,
Thank you for your response to my questions. I think being able to physically reach out to the communities is a major success of your program. As you said, the resistance due to a lack of understanding or misunderstanding of the plays only implies the importance of sensitization of programs.
Two important things work in our strategy of communication ý A)using edutainment (i.e, imbibing local culture/ form in theatre and communicating to mass) and B)physically reaching out to the people (where is different from Thailand model).
This approach helps to overcome barriers like remoteness, lack of electricity, lack of reach by any other media like TV and Radio. Besides in mass media a generic communication is delivered while every place has its own problem, priority, language, dialect, culture, and bias. In view of this we make script based on local research to identify local factors. Also, before the show, we visit every Gram Panchayat (lowest unit of Panchayat Structure) and involve them in fixing the schedule and identifying the spot. This helps us to gain confidence of the local people including local governance structure. Because of involvement of local stakeholders we have faced little resistance, except in a few cases, e.g.: In one backward area, villagers objected to our campaign on Pulse Polio Immunization, because few local leaders decided that non- participation in the initiative can be taken up as protesting tool to ensure other developmental work in the area. Discussions were held and the same was solved. In another case, while doing a campaign to make people aware of the tribal welfare schemes in Purulia district, few Panchayat leaders were mobbed by people realizing that they didnýt get what they were supposed to get, so Panchayats thought campaign will create problem for them in handling the mass, but finally a sensitisation programme with Panchayats along with the campaign helped in taking it further.
We provide one field coordinator and one feedback collector, who are present at each show to collect audience feedback and we use typically a 10 questions questionnaire and interview 4-7 persons after each show, where 40% of questions are from the play and 60% on theme. We also do post campaign survey after 10-30 days of the campaign. Based on these 2 surveys we are able to measure campaign impact.
April 20 '05, 21:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: using theatre as a vehicle
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dear Ananya,
I loved your innovative apporach to reach the public. You are right, the rural population and those most vulnerable to trafficking are very likely to be illiterate. Therefore, we need to be creative in order to deliver a very complicated message.
UNESCO in Thailand also has a cultural program that educates the tribal people through broadcasting pop songs and radio soap operas. Because these programs incorporate the very important "culture" element, it is much easier for the public to get a grip on the idea of trafficking.
Have you encountered any resistance from the community? What are their reasons? Also, how do you measure the impacts? Do you conduct any simply survey to see if the people have a better understanding of trafficking?
I think this project in Cambodia links to Kalpana's point about the politics of poverty and disenfranchisement that pushes people into becoming victim to trafficking. If the community could play an increasing role in safeguarding its daughters and girls, that would work wonders.
In addition to preventing girls from being trafficked, what do you think about the community's role in providing support to those repatriated?
Often times, after the girls are rescued, they are unwilling to go back to their communities because of the potential humilitation they might face at home. This shame factor might push them to be re-trafficked again.
Again, to strengthen a comprehensive support system is essential.
Thanks, Sunitha and Wenchi for reiterating the need for a more focused discussion.
In her very first posting dd. April 1, Wenchi expertly brought up some key issues in human trafficking that would certainly benefit from a vigorous, open-fisted discussion. With practitioners, governments and lay people divided on even basics -- like whether or not to outlaw prostitution, whether or not to criminalize trafficking -- let's use this forum to discuss threadbare the gaps and challenges that lie before us. Let's try to arrive at a consensus, if that's humanly possible. Let's also see if we can network together to move forward and draw from each others' strengths.
To me it seems that there are two strands that everyone is united on. One, that it is the politics of poverty and disenfranchisement that pushes people into becoming victim to trafficking. Two, that there is a certain urgency in figuring out the hows of offering viable alternative life choices for those at-risk of being trafficked, on the one hand, and rehabilitating those who manage to escape servitude, on the other. Perhaps we could use these two issues to start us all off on a positive note?
I'd also like to invite Sunitha -- a practitioner who's fiercely anti- trafficking and anti-legalization -- to table for us some of the more controversial issues that dog this sector and that are coming in the way of building a uniform response to the problem.
April 18 '05, 13:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Rehabilitation services
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Lara,
Can you tell us more about your follow-up work with the children who call the CHILDLINE? How do you ensure that the children who call your hotline receive appropriate care/attention? One of the major challenges for the service providers is that potential victims might disappear. Sometimes they call or appear for help, but they are never in touch later. These cases always worry the NGOs.
You mentioned "re-trafficking", which is the most unfortunate scenario. As Arundhati said, only a sound rehabilitation system can prevent the vicious cycle of trafficking. That means allowing children to attend school, and women to receive vocational training.
What kind of rehabilitation services does CHILDLINE provide? We hope to hear more about your good programs.
April 18 '05, 10:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: where are we heading
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dr Sunitha,
Thank you for your interest in more in-depth discussions. I have raised many questions targeting our entries regarding their practices. I certainly hope to see others' responses as well.
Do you want to start by posting some thoughts on the questions you asked? What are your thoughts on these issues? You, as a practitioner, what works and what doesn't, especially in the country you are from?
I think these are all very important issues for debate. I hope you would be the first one to spark more discussions.
April 18 '05, 10:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Film as a changemaking tool
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dear Kalpana,
I completely agree with you.
I just wanted to say that I am here as a moderator and to ask questions. When I ask questions, that does not mean I oppose to these ideas. I simply want to hear different voices because I know they exist. As we all know, there are many good practices and innovative methods to address this egregious violation of human trafficking. We need to learn from each other in order to have best strategies.
Going back to the film, Gillian Caldwell's film was indeed influential because it reached the right audience at the right time. I know in fact that some of the government officials became involved in this issue because they were shocked after seeing this documentary film.
But I do want to caution that because trafficking has become such a focused topic in the past few years, many films have been made and some of them, in my opinion, misunderstand what trafficking is.
I think film makers have the responsibility to raise public awareness about social issues, and ask questions at the same time. After all, the audience wants to know what they can do to help stop trafficking.
Taking off from Karin's comments, I'd like to add here that there is no disputing that media -- print, electronic, film -- is a powerful medium that has the potential to effect widespread change. IF used ethically. Wenchi has raised a most valid point about how documentaries/film/other media can deliver accurate information without taking lazy recourse to the sensationalism factor which, as we all know, sells like nothing else does. Media vehicles have to guard against further 'prostituting' victims by making them even more vulnerable thanks to irresponsible reporting. Now THAT would be a downright grubby thing to do.
Having said that, let's take the example of documentaries: I believe they have a moral duty to take a stance and not fence-sit. Once having taken the stance, they MUST serve a socially responsible purpose by suggesting solutions to the issue they're featuring. I think that's not too much to expect. As Karin points out, organizations such as WITNESS have done this with remarkable effect.
Merely spotlighting contentious issues is not enough. It's vital to take a stand and create disturbing enough images (taking care not to distort or obscure facts, while doing so) to make each one of us uncomfortable enough to squirm. Only acute discomfort can move people to act.
To answer your thoughts in response to my posting exploring sustainable rehabilitation. Youýve put your finger on one of the most hotly debated topics in the anti-trafficking field: can a raid-and-rescue operation be justified in the absence of robust care and rehabilitation systems?
Common sense and humanity tell us that if law enforcement learns that women (especially underage ones) are being kept in brothels as virtual sex prisoners, it has to act swiftly to get them out of that situation. The problem is that if the rescue is not supported by appropriate follow-up services then the victims remain extremely vulnerable to being exploited again. As Lara Shankar of Childline points out ýre-traffickingý is a major challenge.
The only way that that one can ensure victimsý freedom from the vicious circle of exploitation is by providing resilient, long-term post-rescue services that are activated the moment the rescue operations are carried out. And this of course brings us back to the crucial need for anti- trafficking measures to work in tandem. Intelligence gathering, raids, rescue, rehabilitation, protection, prosecution ý all these various arms of the anti-trafficking machinery need to be equipped and operating at full capacity and in smooth synchrony if this war is to be won.
Society needs to get out of this terrible rut in which it is stuck where we actually have to debate whether to rescue a victim because we donýt know what to do with her thereafter!
It would be great to hear some voices on this subject ý especially to learn of RESCUE AND REHABILITATION models that are working in a sustainable manner. Sharing of experiences, good practices and potential pitfalls would be truly invaluable. So do chime in.
Dear Wenchi I am not sure where we are heading on the discussion front.Looks like we are going everywhere and yet not going anywhere.All of us(especially practioners) in the anti-trafficking sector are going through a few challenges which is perhaps cutting across borders....can we take up some of those issues like the issue of options/alternatives for survivors of trafficking, the issue of licensing/legalising, the HIV/AIDS conspiracy of targeted interventions etc so that we all atleast come to the same platform of thinking. A person like me would like to know other people's struggle in these fronts and the strategies that has helped them to overcome it.Can we look at this space as a corner to strengthen our convictions and clarify our beliefs.And also at the end of the day validation of experiances is rejuvenating! Dr Sunitha
Thanks, Wenchi and Kalpana, for bringing "Born Into Brothels" and the issue of film as a tool to educate the public into the discussion. Interestingly enough, I wrote to "Brothels" teacher Zana Briski a few weeks ago and encouraged her to have a look at the Changemakers contest and discussion and to consider entering her organization Kids with Cameras (KWC) in the competition. KWC is now spreading beyond India to other countries.
The power of film to educate the public on a topic as charged as human trafficking probably cannot be overestimated. While there's of course always a danger that a fictional filmmaker might sensationalize/dramatize the topic with gratuitous characters or language or other elements and so lose an opportunity to engage, educate, and motivate the audience about important issues, a documentary filmmaker rarely, if ever, faces the same risks of distortion because the point is always to bear witness to what is real and what is real is never gratuitous.
I'm guessing that if a documentary about human trafficking (however limited in its treatment, focus, or up-to-the-minute factual presentation) became a huge popular sensation, none of us would think that the film had "sensationalized" the topic, but only that a service had been done to educate and alert citizens to learn more, indeed much more about a brutal practice going on around the world, and to do something about it.
It's probably worthwhile to remember that Gillian Caldwell's 1997 video documentary "Bought and Sold" on human trafficking led to massive, mainstream media coverage that provoked an outcry against trafficking for sexual slavery and prompted legislators in the United States to pass the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000.
And to note, too, that Caldwell was not a famous filmmaker or any other kind of filmmaker for that matter. She simply had in mind a new idea that documenting the problem would serve well as a tool for massive social change. Her organization WITNESS now aims to spread the approach far and wide and apply it (in the hands of citizens everywhere) to every sort of human rights abuse.
April 16 '05, 21:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Sustainable victim rehabilitation
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dear Arundhati,
Thank you for your discusison on sustainable victim rehabilitation. I agree with you. After these horrible experiences, the long-term rehabilitation is most needed, while often ignored.
Some practices, by only focusing on short-term intervention, might result in more harm than those without intervention. But no one can deny the importance of intervention in enslavement.
There is a debate in the NGO community regarding how to best conduct raids and rescue. Some believe that conducting raids in brothels is necessary, especially when under-aged girls are involved. It is better to get them out than leaving them there, even though an appropriate after-care system might not exist. Others belive that the process of raiding a brothel might do even more harm to these girls if no careful planning or after care is arranged.
Some more thoughts on the subject of sustainable rehabilitation. The importance of timely and adequate help for victims to get out - and stay out - of their enslaved circumstances needs no elaboration. Yet, it remains one of the weakest links in the anti-trafficking war. This seems to hold especially true of women trafficked into prostitution who want to leave the sex trade. Cutting across cultures, this is undoubtedly the most difficult of transits, with formidable barriers in the shape of social censure and the lack of social and economic rehabilitation services.
One of the most heartening things that have happened in recent times are the strides made in getting communities to acknowledge the reality of domestic violence and owning that the woman is a victim. Simultaneously, the state and civil society have invested in developing and marketing exit strategies for victims of domestic violence. It’s nowhere near enough, but there has been significant forward movement. One of the most vital developments has been the fact that women now are increasingly aware that walking out is an option: they are learning that there are safe environments that will protect them (and their children) from their aggressors and which offer them a chance to start afresh.
Those wanting to leave prostitution need to be able to feel the same confidence: they have to know that if they leave their pimps won’t locate them; that they will be able to get skills which will give them life choices; that they are not alone but have the support of a community. This calls for state and civil agencies to both design and finance appropriate exit plans (including heavy investments in safe houses, life skills programs, counseling services, et al). Simultaneously, there have to be proactive strategies to reach out to the sex workers’ communities to let them know that these services exist. Outreach efforts to educate the public need to be ramped up, too, so that society appreciates and applauds the courage that these victims of sexual exploitation show when stepping out of their abusive situations.
Arundhati Ray
April 15 '05, 11:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Childlind
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dear Lara,
I have also heard a lot about Childine's great work in India. I am inviting you to enter the on-lone comepetition. Please see the left half side of the homepage for entry. We look forward to seeing you as a contestant.
April 15 '05, 9:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
CHILDLINE Reaching Out...
From: Lara ShankarProgram Coordinator, PR&D Unit, CIF - Mumbai.
Greetings from CHILDLINE India Foundation! I would like to express my pleasure on seeing all of us getting involved in this discourse and actually talking about issues that for long have been under covers. Taking this opportunity I would like to raise the issue of trafficking in children and also to throw light upon the fact that trafficking and abuse happens with boys as much as it happens with girls.
Children are trafficked for begging, illegal adoption and illegal organ donation but more so for the purpose of sexual exploitation and labour. Domestic child labour and bonded labour literally suck children into hellish lives. Another burgeoning problem closely linked to abuse and trafficking is the spread of HIV/ AIDS. Child prostitution and sexual play with children especially boys (related to paedophilia) are not things of the past but social evils that are linked closely to trafficking.
Allow me to draw your attention to CHILDLINE India Foundation and its network of over 200 organizations working towards child protection in India. CHILDLINE is currently operational in 66 cities spread over 20 states. We are Indiaýs first 24-hour helpline service for children across the country; our teams are available day and night. Anyone can call 1098 and expect help for children.
Through the years - nearly 10 years of meaningful existence - we have received over 6.5m calls from children and concerned adults. Intervention cases involve shelter, repatriation, emotional support and guidance, medical aid, rescue etc. Through the calls received, we have identified that inter-state trafficking for labour and sexual exploitation is a growing trend. We are involved in rescuing, repatriating and rehabilitating children. Counselling forms an important part of our intervention. Follow-up of children is equally important. For we realise that not only trafficking but also "re-trafficking" needs to be addressed.
Awareness among the general public and the allied systems is a major part of our role. Thus we work on prevention through raising awareness and on protection through rescue, repatriation and rehabilitation. We advocate on the issue of trafficking by addressing litigation issues, joining networks and campaigns and lobbying for positive change. We are now moving into working on the prosecution aspect. The point here is that prevention, protection and prosecution happen simultaneously.
Our strategy is to involve as many stakeholders as possible. The police, representatives from allied systems, administrators, members of governments, other NGOs, partner organizations, concerned individuals, youth and children. Trafficking is not my or your concern; it is "your" concern. There are many laws - we need enforcement of existing laws, capacity building of law enforcers and increased accessibility to available services. Implementation of laws is to be made more stringent. Again simultaneously awareness and sensitisation need to be taken up strongly.
Taking from the discussion here, we are "for" addressing root causes and working collectively so that duplication is avoided. Through networking we can draw linkages and reach out to every child. We need to share and learn from each other.
We are here! Call us! Call 1098! Good to see the applications, we shall be there soon!
April 14 '05, 16:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Global Information Sharing Website
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dear Bruce,
Thanks for your idea. The project by DOS and AED is www.humantrafficking.org. You are correct, its primary focus is East Asia. The Swiss Foundation of Terre des hommes has www.childtrafficking.com. The Polaris Project also has www.humantrafficking.com, which has a database of trafficking news.
Information sharing is definitely vital to the anti-trafficking movement. The changemakers.net is also another example.
Bruce, do you already have an anti-trafficking website? We are looking for best practices and if you know of any other good efforts, please encourage them to enter this competition.
April 14 '05, 11:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Film as a tool to educate the public
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dear Kalpana,
I haven't seen "Born into Brothels" but heard it's a really good movie. That reminds me of all the documentary films and movies on this subject.
How do you think about film as an effective tool to educate the public on this important issue? Some well-made movies or documentaries can be very intriguing. But should we caution about the dramatization of these stories when trafficking becomes an increasingly focused topic? The audience likes interesting stories but how can we carefully deliver accurate information without only sensational pictures or descriptions?
I wonder how many of you have seen "Born Into Brothels," which fetched Zana Briski and Ross Kaufmann this year's Oscar for best documentary. I haven't, but as a person seriously conerned about social issues and a resident of Kolkata to boot, I've been particularly interested in the furore this film has generated. The controversies buzzing around the film - - shot in Sonagachi, Kolkata's red-light district -- seem to be a microcosm of the differing stands taken by organizations working on this human rights issue. Pro-legislation groups are up in arms that the film demeans the women and their children; that the film portrays only the bleakness of lives there and glosses over the fact that these "sex workers" are organizing for their rights and have won several victories that have somewhat ameliorated the sleaze and horror of their existence. Then there are groups who feel the women were used as props, with no attempt at empathy. Anti-legislation lobbyists are hailing the film as a torchbearer, an advocacy tool that will help in the crusade in stamping out "prostitution."
(Note here that I very carefully used two different terms -- "sex workers" and "prostitutes" -- to describe those in the same trade. What you call them depends on how you view the issue. Of whether you want to legalize it as a "profession" or not.)
Whatever the debates may be, we are all agreed on one thing, and thank god for that: the exploitation of the vulnerable is just NOT on. That in the best case scenario, the aim is to prevent trafficking. That for this to happen, governments and citizenry need to ensure that their interventions address the very factors that spawn this: poverty, all forms of discrimination, vulnerabilty, inequality.
In all of this we musn't forget one fundamental truth: violations of human rights are both a cause and a consequence of trafficking.
April 12 '05, 15:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Take Me Home Campaign
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dear Gloria,
This is a trully innovative idea. Can you tell us more?
Does the campaign require that you work with taxi companies? Have you approached them? What is their response?
Who will be operating the hotline (0800-numbers)?
Will the taxi drivers help the victims of trafficking if asked to do so? And how will they help them? Do you plan to train the taxi drivers?
Thank you for your considered response to my question: your step-by step account of how ACTA-SEE is fighting the problem of systemic corruption and trafficking lent a lot of clarity to the whole subject.
One of the hurdles you identify to law enforcement is the lack of resources. And of course, this is a stumbling block in any part of the world: law enforcement agencies are invariably strapped for cash; and they are up against one of the most booming criminal industries. In this context I wonder if youýve seen the write-up on Polaris (USA) in the Mosaic on the Changemakers site. Polaris is lobbying for state laws that include provisions for seizure and forfeiture of traffickersý assets. This naturally is a big financial incentive for law enforcement agencies and as more arrests take place and more money gets pumped back into the law enforcement system, the criminals end up actually funding their own downfall!
I look forward to seeing the ACTA-SEE competition entry.
It's good to see that a number of entries look at the issue of rehabilitation of victims of trafficking. Among these, the project from Israel addresses the vital question of appropriate and adequate support for victims of trafficking who have managed to escape their bondage situations; or are at the brink of doing so. What are the support systems that must be in place in order to give these women a fighting chance to rebuild their lives? That's a question that cuts across cultural/geographical boundaries and has resonance in any part of the world.
What I was not very sure about was whether Hot Line for Migrant Workers has actually launched the "demonstration model". If yes, then it would be great to learn more details about this model: what are its components? How does it operate? How many women is it reaching out to? How long has it been in existence and what are some important "lessons learnt". If the program were to share these, I feel the information would be invaluable for others working in this area since, as I've said before, sustainable victim rehabilitation this is such a crucial challenge to crafting a comprehensive solution to trafficking.
The name of the project reflects the hopes of Thousands of Nepalese children, girls and women who are trafficked to India every year. Among the ones who are rescued and repatriated to Nepal have more pain to go through. Most them are HIV +. Being HIV + adds enormous agony of being a trafficked survivor. Until 2003 i.e. the beginning of this project, we have seen small children, girls and women (trafficked survivor) die of HIV / AIDS every day . We could take no more of this and we felt the rehabilitation we were doing for them were incomplete, until we find a solution for treatment of HIV / AIDS for them, which was still non existent in Nepal. Therefore in 2003, our supporters and friends got together and started this project.
As we also run a clinic (Sonja Jeevan Kendra) for the survivor of trafficking, which was established to avoid stigma and discrimination of treatment of trafficked survivors in the city hospitals, we provide them with the drugs. We have now with us a full time medical doctor, one staff Nurse, three Community Medical Auxiliaries, one consultant Gynaecologist, one consultant Padaeatrician and consultant Psychologist for the ARV Treatment, who provides 24 hours medical monitoring.
The children, girls and women do not refuse the use of the Drugs, since they have no idea about HIV / AIDS when they are rescued. It is only when they are repatriated and brought to Maiti Nepal and undergo voluntary medical tests, we find out that they are HIV +. After, this with the help of our Psychosocial counsellors we counsel them and prepare them for ARV treatment.
The Government of Nepal has also started the provision of ARV, but their services is very limited compared to the size of the problem in Nepal. For more details please visit the following site: http://www.youandaids.org/Features/PanosNepal5Oct.asp
We have been sharing our experiences with the Government.
Congratulations on your "Initiative Hope" project. Can you tell us more about the treatment? Who provides the drugs? How do you monitor the treatment of trafficked girls and women? What if they refuse to be treated? How do you convince them to use these free drugs routinely?
What about the initiative by the Government of Nepal? Does Maiti Nepal work with the government to provide the free ARV treatment?
With reference to your discussion posting of April 6 in which you asked a special question of our project, Odanadi Seva Trust, after reading our contest submission, here is my response.
Social policing, in our strong opinion, is the only remedy to combat human trafficking. I give priority to preparing the stakeholders with the required legal information, social empowerment, and commitment. As an organisation, Odanadi is showing a model and results to the common people, and there is an increase in the number of volunteers who have swung into action and bust criminal networks. The gap between the police and the people is reducing, thanks to our regular intervention. Through us, basic legal knowledge like how to collect information, lodge a legal complaint or an FIR, chargesheeting, judicial process, witnessing, etc. is reaching the common man. While police have appointed personnel to take care of law and order, social policing has the potential of becoming a round-the-lock lifestyle of an empowered general public.
Regarding the example that you cite of traffickers travelling with the victims in a train, the passengers have got every right to inform the railway police immediately and he/she can then stay away from the incident. However, do remember that if he/she comes forward as a witness, the case becomes stronger. Such children can be sent to the juvenile home in the nearest town, or temporary arrangements can be made until such time as a juvenile home can be found for the child.
Thanking you, With warm regards, Parashuram.
April 10 '05, 14:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Maximizing resources
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Dear Brenda,
I liked your idea of working with socially responsible corporations to promote good causes.
Last year, ECPAT USA, UNICEF, and the World Tourism Organization launched the "code of conduct" for the North American travel industry. The Code is designed to protect children from commercial sexual exploitation in travel and tourism. Several companies have signed the Code.
Besides the travel industry, can we invite other industries to join the anti-trafficking campaign? Any ideas?
I will try to respond to your question related to our model that is aiming to combat trafficking and corruption all together.
Since it is a complex issue that we were designing for two years I will try to be short here, but we are sending a copy of our program to Changemakers.net and hope it will be published so you can have better picture of the problems that we are trying to address.
First and crucial issue is how to make those who work on combating trafficking to do their job. Since we were working on anti-corruption program for last five years, we (Partnership for Social Development organization) have learned that for most of the serious organized crime related problems the state is clearly responsible. At the same time there are victims of these criminal acts, that the very same state is supposed to protect. By analysing such cases we can see that state or multiple states are responsible for the situation of the victims of trafficking. The new legislation did frame the issue and offers fair possibilities to protect and support the victim, but implementation is poor.
Why?
Well, the costs that state has are quite high and they (state agencies) avoid implementation of the law by rejecting to acknowledge the status of the victim. This discriminating action aims to treat victims as criminals and to prosecute those responsible under diferent legal acts so punishment is way under the size of the crime and that sends the message that doing it is "good and profitable bussiness".
How to stop it?
In short we need to prove with unbeatable facts that governments are doing it and advocate for prosecution of persons or institutions responsible, because we shall never forget that such acts are destroying lifes of victims all over the world.
To ensure this approach we also need to push for changes in International Convention on Human Rights, where trafficking and corruption need to be addressed. This shall open space for NGOs to do more for victims and proceedings of the governmental agencies toward victim shall be more transparent and visible (at the same time governmental agencies shall be responsible for any mistreatment of the victim).
I probably can continue for days writing or talking on this issue but that is all for now.
We will send our program for competition award so you may read it there.
I hope that this answered some of your questions,
Munir Podumljak
President of PSD and ACTA Temporary Coordinator.
April 9 '05, 8:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
The Demand Side of Trafficking
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Haifa Feminist Center's approach to address the demand of human trafficking is very important. Most of the existing efforts have been concentrated on the supply. So Haifa's approach to educate the clients or potential clients of trafficked women is worth our attention. It is important to let these potential clients to know that some of these women are forced to provide services.
My question to Haifa is: when there is a decline in consumer demand which may very likely lead to a decrease in profitability for the traffickers, how could we make sure that these women will not be further abused by the traffickers or even law enforcement because they bring in less income?
What I saw in Cambodia was that after the government cleaned up their red light district near the capital, there is indeed much less "demand." However, by talking to these women, I realized that the abuses and harrassment by the police have actually increased.
The police asks for much higher bribery from these women if they are arrested. When the women cannot afford to pay the amount (usually $2-3oo USD), they are often raped or abused by the police.
Again, corruption is tied to trafficking in this case. Also, the police is not targeting the traffickers or the clients, but the victims.
I look forward to hearing from you regarding how we can have a declined demand while ensuring the full protection of victims.
I am so glad to see that more people are joining the discussion. With all these good thoughts, I think networking and collaboration among NGOs needs to be emphasized. Some of you might be working alone in your community, without knowing that there is a global movement against human trafficking. Dr. Sushma's "movement against trafficking" is worth our thinking.
How can we all work together to convince our governments that counter trafficking in persons needs to be high on their political agenda? Will partnership between local NGOs and international NGOs be more effective? In several cases, it seems to be the case. There are also negative impacts in other cases. How can we be more strategic about partnership and movement?
We hope to hear from you.
April 8 '05, 12:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Corruption and Trafficking
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
To respond to Arundhati's question, ACTA (Anti-Corruption Anti- Trafficking) NGO capacity building project is pioneering in South Eastern Europe. If you need more information about it, please email me at wenchiyuperkins@vitalvoices.org and I can provide more.
Your observations on how crucial it is for anti-corruption measures to evolve alongside the framing of anti-trafficking legislation were excellent. Laws are meaningful only to the extent that they are properly implemented, and corruption - especially amongst those entrusted with law enforcement - is of course the biggest stumbling block to making laws work.
In this context, it would be interesting to learn more about the pioneering model in South Eastern Europe that is combat trafficking and corruption simultaneously. Mentioned by you. Could you provide some details?
It is time we pause and look into our government Policy It is time for us to question the so called democratic Ruling Government It is time for us to question our role in society It is time.......this can go on & on. This is a story of somebody, anybody and nobody. Who is responsible for the present day scenario of trafficking.
NGO's like Prajwala has stepped in, where very few dare to even accept the fact that young girls of our society are sold for sexual pleasure. The most heinous form of crime is human trafficking.21st century is faced with this reality which need to STOP! or else our sisters , daughters, mothers and women in general will be victims of human destruction.
What are the options available , if options are available will you and I give the rescued girl a second chance to live peacefully , live a harmonious life? STOP! and introspect .
NGO's like Prajwala needs to be applauded for daring to take a stand for the voiceless, hapless victims. Lets us come together to support and built a movement to combat Human Trafficking.
Trafficking of women and children is a worst kind of human rights violation. Where the young girls were lured with false promises and sold in brothels. since it is a third largest organised crime in the world. Such problems can be addressed through only state acceptance and commitment to combat trafficking. For such problems there is a need of policy like government of andhra pradesh, India. I would like to appriciate the prajwala organisation, who are doing some good work to combat trafficking. But, unless and until the formulated policies are implemented properly i.e., allocating budget, working with a two pronged strategy like those who have already victims should be rescued and rehabilitate and on the other hand prevention like no human being should be trafficked for the purpose of commercial sexual exploitation otherwise their is no use any such policies. Now every state and center should accept the magnitude of the problem and should come up with polices to combat trafficking by allocateing appropriate budget, stringt implementation of laws and proper rehabilitation package for the victims and the state should use voluntary organisations and the civil socieity by giving them responsibility towards community.
Trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation is the worst form of human rights violation. India is a supply, transit and destination for this trade in human misery. Within the country Andhra Pradesh is one of the largest supplier of women and children for the flesh trade market. Anamika -The Nameless is a bold documentary depicting this dehumanized shot in different red light areas, dancing bars, nude dance programs, massage parlors; this film has testimonies of victims from Andhra Pradesh who were trafficked to different parts of the country. The film raises pertinent questions on civil society's response to combat this problem and the culture of silence that has promoted demand for flesh trade. Anamika -The Nameless which is directed by internationally acclaimed film maker Mr. Rajesh Touchriver is produced by Touchriver Pictures Pvt., Ltd., and Prajwala an anti trafficking organization.
We are looking for buyers to buy the rights of the film.Please respond
April 8 '05, 4:04
(6 ratings / 5.0 average
Where Am I?
From: Dr Sunitha Krishnan,Prajwala
In the unknown terrains of darkness I see for light to guide my soul In the untold depth of my being. I yearn for dignity to hold my whole.
For hundreds of thousands of victims of commercial sexual exploitation whom you can call by any name depending on the perspective you carry, a prostitute or a commercial sex worker this is their heartrending plea - need to be a part of the mainstream society - a need to belong. Ask any of them whether they want their children in the trade and the answer is a firm NO. And there the dichotomy begins. In recent times there have been a lot of debates on whether prostitution should be legalized/decriminalized etc. I am actually now waiting for a time when people will start debating whether rape or murder should be legalized. Sounds absurd. Well if prostitution can be legalized then in the course of time even crime and slavery should be legalized, for prostitution or sex trade is the oldest form of sexual slavery. From time immemorial various deviances and discrepancies have existed in the society many of which internalized and integrated in the normal day today social functioning, be it feudalism, sati or dowry. To maintain the power hierarchies these have been reinforced by social systems such as patriarchy that makes male hegemony the all powerful process. The male domain has constantly found ways to maintain women subserviently so that power blocks are never threatened. Over the centuries women and the larger society have slowly internalized all this with a "culture of silence" and also have learnt the ways to be the torch bearer of this system. The consequence a society that is specialized and skilled in the art of gender discrimination which is manifested in various forms ranging from female foeticide, infanticide, child marriage, eve-teasing, rape, dowry death etc..etc. And somewhere this message is also grilled that as a woman you are an object - a commodity that can be suitably traded off. Only the orifices in your body have certain significance otherwise you are worthless. This has been the primary logic of women being in flesh trade. That a woman's identity is either for procreation or as a sexual being who will sustain the well being of the society. Interestingly the arguments in favor of prostitution to be legalized go up to the extent of calling sex as a service industry that actually protects other women from being sexually molested or raped. Well if that is the case there should not be a single rape in countries where prostitution is legal!!!! Slavery has never empowered a human being and therefore prostitution can never empower a woman. Prostitution is a bi-product of lack of options or alternatives in the society. No woman or man for that matter, will ever voluntarily opt for flesh trade in a context of adequate sustainable options. Therefore let us not legitimize our own inadequacies to provide options or our own deviant need to maintain power hierarchies and call it sexual right of a person to sell his/her body. On the other hand in this era of HIV/AIDS and foreign funding there is a genuine need for many to gain entry points. A need to implement strategies that will target the so called communities with "high risk behaviours" but the catch is that these well wishers/savior of the society are not willing to address any deep-rooted issues in the society. Their pre-dominant obsession is to impose shortcut methods to prevent HIV/AIDS, not at any point realizing or acknowledging that change cannot occur from the periphery. In a situation of absolute slavery, helplessness and optionlessness what is the bargaining power one expects from the individual. But the dilemma is that money is taken and it has to be expended so the most convenient strategy is to gain entry through promotion of a slogan "sex is work, let us legalise it." This ensures that their work is done in a relatively non-threatening atmosphere. But the women at the end of the day are labeled further - isolated to marginalisation - with a double edged sword of stigma and discrimination. How is it empowering?? There are very many factors that are stonewalling the empowerment of women, but the worst among them is the whole vicious cycle of commodification of women's body. If there is a trade in human misery that violates all human rights it is the commercial sexual exploitation of women and children. By being a silent spectator we are all a part of the "culture of silence" that promotes this dehumanized trade. Our silence supports demand; our inaction motivates exploitation...we have disempowered ourselves.
Break this chain of silence...for it is our own sisters and daughters who are being traded.
April 8 '05, 14:04
(2 ratings / 4.5 average
State/Province Commitment
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Prajwala pointed out an important strategy in countries with less centralized governance.
The United States is an example to look at state commitment. Human Trafficking by its nature is a transnational crime. Since it has to deal with immigration, transnational organized crime issues, the Federal government needs to be involved. However, thanks to grassroots lobbying efforts, we are seeing more states' actions. In the US, we currently have five states that criminalize human trafficking. Many more are considering new state legislation. That means state law enforcement will be prosecuting human traffickers. We are hopeful that in addition to "prosecution", "protection" and "prevention" will also be included in new laws.
When the State has a greater sense of their ownership and efficacy in this area, this will lead to more vigorous enforcement and more careful scrutiny of possible trafficking victimization.
April 7 '05, 8:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Re: Tightening Legal Frameworks
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and
Human Rights Program Manager
Arundhati proposed a vitally important solution: prosecution of traffickers. Without severe punishment, this "business" of selling and buying human begins will not disappear.
With the State Department's Annual Trafficking in Persons report, which puts countries in three tiers to examine governments' efforts to counter human trafficking, many governments are on the fast-track to pass anti- trafficking legislation.
However, what continues to be the problem is the implementation of the law and the awareness of the protection among law enforcement agencies. In many developing countries, corruption is hindering anti-trafficking efforts. From Southeast Asia to South Eastern Europ, and to Latin America, we do see some political will but when it comes down to implementation, it becomes tricky. Some government officials and powerful law enforcement chiefs are closely tied to organized crime groups and are profiting from this lucrative business. They are the "untouchables" and thus prosecution does not result in punishment for these big fish.
In my view, we cannot avoid talking about corruption in the anti- trafficking context. Unfortunately, South Eastern Europe is the only region that I know of that is pioneering a model to combat trafficking and corruption together. We want to see more successful practices and look forward to your successful stories.
Wenchi
April 8 '05, 14:04
(2 ratings / 4.5 average
State of the field?
From: Chris Cusano, Change Leader - Asia, Ashoka: Innovators for the Public
What is the state of the "field" of trafficking work today? Who is innovating, and where are the success stories that can be applied for greater benefit?
* Are there economic solutions to the "supply" side of trafficking that will in effect price traffickers out of the market? * What role might the private sector play in investing in rural livelihoods so that both companies and large numbers of poor folk benefit? * Is there any kind of international award for those crucial law enforcement people who help the citizen sector attack trafficking? How to support these important allies?
I wonder where we might find new and different approaches to trafficking that can complement and support all impressive and difficult activities already underway worldwide.
In my experience, I have seen organizations that work in one or more of three general categories: 1) "rescue" and rehabilitation of trafficking victims; 2) legislation, law enforcement, and monitoring of states; 3)economic and educational programs to prevent trafficking. Each of these is really a sub-field unto itself, with its own strategies, succeses and failures.
The trafficking I have seen in SE Asia has often been brutal: endentured servitude in the sex trade, usually involving minors. Committed organizations and individuals have been working in all three general areas.
But we probably all have to admit that the seemingly immutable forces of supply and demand fuel the market.
There are many ways to look at this problem, but a while back it struck me that perhaps the best way to fight economic forces is with equally potent economic forces. It has always seemed to me that one reason why pimps, brokers, agents, and other fish on the trafficking food change are able to operate is that the amounts of money they deal in are relatively small compared to what the biggest fish ultimately earn, and relatively large compared to what poor rural folk usually see. Obviously, with the equivalent of $3000-4000 in hand, they represent a large source of cash.
And the fact is they have no competition. No one else is willing to invest cash in the future of an adolescent girl from northeast Thailand, say, or Laos--at least not in those amounts and not in large enough numbers to give the agents a run for their money. So, perverse as it is, the brokers are saying, in effect, "this person is worth something to me."
Like all extractive industries, this deal benefits offers short-term profits to a few but incurs long-term costs to the many (and, of course, to the individual girl). The long-term costs to the soiety are tremendous: a girl's education has been cut cut short, her health and social standing have been compromise, perhaps irrevocably; probably her future earning potential has been severely limited; the unerground economy has been strengthened and the public treasury has been denied revenue.
Calculating all these factors--and always keeping in mind a society's obligation to look after the health and welfare of people,especially the young--we might find determine that the society should be willing to "invest" more than $3000-4000 in that child's future, not only for her benefit, but for the good of the economy.
As you can tell, I haven't done the research yet to back up the economic argument. But if we just accept provisionally that it might be valid, then the implications are clear. Banks, financial institutions, and governments would face a compelling case for taking action. Citizen-sector organizations would have to invent financial instruments for delivering this capital: education grants, consumption loans, credit, perhaps even grants to the family for keeping kids inAnd of course the social and administrative systems must exist to implement such programs.
But the core of the idea is not simply to create a new generation of social programs thattry to strengthen one's immunity to trafficking. The purpose is to make trafficking less profitable for the few and its alternatives--education and good livelihoods--more profitable for the entire public.
I've been relooking at some of the entries and I find Mr Parashuram M.L.'s program especially exciting because it is driven by the powerful vision of an entire society consciensitized and empowered to fight trafficking. His concept of social policing, specifically, is very interesting.
In this context, it would be fantastic if he could illustrate exactly how this works (is working) on the ground. How exactly are ordinary citizens being trained to become more vigilant and able to spot trafficking in action? And to what extent is s/he legally equipped to intervene when s/he suspects that a trafficking crime is under commission?
For example, if someone traveling by train in South India (Mr Parashuram's impact area) has reason to suspect that the kids travelling with a co- passenger are victims of abduction, what can she do? What are the steps that she would be within her rights to take? Who are the authorities who can immediately and effectively step in to ensure the children's safety?
It would also be great if he could elaborate on the "progressive" programs that the Indian government has now embarked on to counter trafficking.
I've been enjoying reading your postings, as well as the "trafficking mosaic" and the case studies that have been put up. Indeed, it's encouraging to learn that so many excellent efforts are happening across the globe to fight this truly horrific problem.
I'm a journalist and consultant for the social sector and my special area of interest is to look at systemic, innovative solutions to critical social problems. And the egregious, cross-cultural nature of trafficking makes this discussion, I feel, extremely timely and pertinent.
Taking off from your request to move beyond prevention to protection and prosecution, here are some thoughts I would like to share, specifically about prosecution. I believe that laws in most countries still lag far behind the rate at which the crime has grown. There's a vital need for legal frameworks to evolve that ensure fast-track prosecution for trafficking offences matched with overhauling of sentencing guidelines so that offenders do serious jail time. The problem with trafficking arrests is that most often it's the small fry that get apprehended. And typically they are too low-down in the trafficking assembly line to lead law- enforcement to the big dogs; or too terrified of consequences even if they can.
While efforts have to go on to try and track the criminals at the top - the prime movers, the arrest of these middle-men/touts/agents/brokers who are the cogs in the wheel has to used to set an example. Their offence needs to be treated on par with the most "unnatural" crimes. Frequent, fast and severe prosecution and sentencing even at this bottom rung of the criminal ladder is bound to disrupt the criminal system. In the beginning there will be others to replace those that get taken out, but if the judiciary and law-enforcement agencies can keep the fast-paced momentum of arrest, indictment and maximized sentencing, the pressure will be felt by even the most slick networks. For after all, you would be hitting the suppliers.
Again, this would possibly also discentivize potential (and existing) trafficking touts since the risks will start outweighing the gains.
It would be interesting to get the insights of changemakers from across the globe who are focusing on laws and law enforcement that can fight trafficking on this subject. From the mosaic presented here, for example, it would be great to hear from Derek Ellerman (Polaris, USA) and Sri Lanka's Harendra de Silva. I would also be keen to learn your thoughts/reactions from your experiences at Vital Voices.
We have 6 interesting projects so far and we look forward to seeing more.
From the current entries, we see the importance of raising public awareness and public education about human trafficking. In addition to the "prevention" measure, can we have more thoughts on "protection" and "prosecution?" What do we do after identifying victims? How do we help them get back to their normal life?
The "employment network" presented an interesting solution by identifying job opportunities for victims of trafficking. As many of you already know, lacking employment and economic opportunities is the major factor pushing vulnerable people out of their homes. The root causes of human trafficking need to be addressed through a comprehensive and creative approach.
We look forward to hearing more from you.
Wenchi
April 1 '05, 11:04
(0 ratings / 0.0 average
Welcome, Changemakers!
From: Wenchi Yu Perkins, Vital Voices Global Partnership, Anti-Trafficking and Human Rights Program Manager
Dear changemakers:
Welcome to the on-line discussion for the Changemakers Awards Competition!
Today, we are delighted to see a rapidly growing Anti-Trafficking community worldwide. While more individuals and organizations are joining the fight againtst human trafficking everyday, it is time for us to examine what has been achieved in the fight against trafficking, and above all to openly name existing gaps and challenges as well as possible counter-productive effects of some initiatives.
The Mosaic of Solutions is a new tool to look at this complex problem analytically and to come up with solutions creatively through making connections, creating synergies, identifying emerging trends and patterns, and finding and filling gaps.
We hope the following questions will stimulate your thoughts and enrich the discussion:
- Which promising initiatives do already exist and how can they possibly be improved?
- How does networking of international organisations, governments, civil society, including nongovernmental organizations, the media, etc. work out regarding the development and implementation of joint prevention and awareness raising strategies?
- What kind of impacts have government policies brought to anti- trafficking work? Specify the type of policy that brings about positive or negative impacts.
- How is human trafficking related to other violations of human rights? Early forced marriages? Worst conditions of child labor? Extreme labor exploitation? Child soldiers?
- What are the root causes? Any best practices targeting root causes? What are they?
- How can data management systems be improved at both national and international levels? To which extent do the different agencies share data and coordinate their activities? Are there examples of joint research activities?
- How do we collaborate and avoid duplications of efforts?
A Framework for Human Trafficking
By Derek Ellerman, Polaris Project
Human trafficking is the third-largest and fastest-growing criminal industry in the world. Millions of people are kept in slave-like conditions in factories, farms, homes, and the sex industry, generating billions of dollars for criminal groups. ...
