Survivors of human trafficking have unique insights and experiences that are invaluable in designing effective counter-trafficking measures.
Their firsthand knowledge of the tricks and tactics used by traffickers, the challenges faced during and after the trafficking experience, and the gaps in existing support systems can inform more responsive and impactful policies and initiatives.
Engaging survivors in policy-making processes ensures that the measures implemented are not only effective but also empathetic and tailored to the needs of those affected. This approach shifts the narrative from viewing survivors merely as victims with little to no agency, to recognising them as powerful agents of change.
According to the 2023 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, many countries like Canada, Australia and the Philippines, have established platforms for regular consultations between survivors and counter-trafficking stakeholders. These platforms ensure that survivor perspectives are integrated into legislation, policies, and practices, highlighting the importance of a victim-centred, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive approach. The National Survivor Study (NSS) by Polaris found that survivor-led initiatives are effective in building evidence-based strategies to combat human trafficking.
ASEAN's commitment to survivor inclusion
The ASEAN Multi-Sectoral Work Plan Against Trafficking in Persons (Bohol TIP Work Plan 2.0) advocates for the establishment of national advisory councils or committees that include trafficked survivors. These councils aim to provide a platform for survivors to voluntarily share their experiences and insights, thereby shaping more effective and humane trafficking policies.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition within ASEAN Member States of the importance of survivor voices in counter-trafficking efforts. By institutionalising survivor engagement, ASEAN aims to create policies that are not only informed by evidence but also grounded in the lived realities of those most affected.
Insights from the experts
Our final webinar for 2024 featured a panel who each brought unique perspectives on how the region can strengthen survivor engagement and amplify survivior voices in counter-trafficking efforts.
H.E. Lilian De Leon, Philippines Department of the Interior and Local Government and representative of the SOMTC-Philippines emphasised the need for ASEAN Member States to create inclusive platforms for survivor engagement. She highlighted the Bohol TIP Work Plan 2.0 as a significant step towards institutionalising survivor voices in policy-making processes. She also highlighted the need for sustained support to NGOs and other organisations run by survivors in humanising the trafficking experience and building empathy and awareness among groups particularly vulnerable to trafficking – but also the public.
Ms. Maizidah Salas, Indonesian Migrant Workers Trade Union shared her courageous personal journey as a survivor and advocate, to highlight the transformative power of survivor leadership. Her story illustrated how survivors can drive change at both the community and national levels. She said: "Community outreach from the ‘kampung’/village level right up to the national level is critical in educating and empowering migrant workers to make sure their journeys are safe and successful."
Mr. Mohammad Abdus Salam, Human Research Consultancy reminded the audience of some uncomfortable but important truths about the stigma survivors of trafficking experience, stating that: "Survivors want to work and contribute, and we must offer them alternatives to exploitative work". He stressed that policies and practices must be designed to support survivors' recovery and empowerment, rather than re-traumatising and further isolating them.
Mr. Hor Kosal, Chab Dai Coalition Cambodia highlighted the collaborative efforts of his organisation, including working with survivors across all 25 Cambodian provinces. Whilst acknowledge the importance of survivors being able to access immediate protection and support, he said that to really end the cycle of exploitation long term protection and support to prevent re-trafficking is required. He also called for continued advocacy for state-based compensation for survivors for the immediate and ongoing harms they suffer, as well as for a supportive environment in which survivor leadership flourish.
Ms. Shandra Woworuntu, Mentari focused on the systemic nature of exploitation and the critical role of language either helping or hindering empowerment efforts. She called for formalised efforts to involve survivors in various roles, recognising that each survivor may want to contribute in different ways and that survivors should be financially compensated for their contribution. She reminded us that anyone can fall prey to trafficking, and it is never the fault of an individual – exploitation is systemic and explainable if we examine the structural factors that underpin it.
Moving Forward
By engaging survivors in meaningful ways, we can develop more effective, empathetic, and sustainable approaches to combating human trafficking. As we move forward, it is crucial to create supportive environments that enable survivor leadership and participation. This involves not only establishing formal mechanisms for survivor engagement, but also fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and collaboration. By amplifying their voices, we can ensure that our efforts are informed, inclusive, and impactful.
Watch the webinar in full below: