Partnering to Address Transnational Issues: Human Trafficking

The issues that you face as an HSPP are rarely unique to the community in which you find yourself working. Local challenges can often be fueled by factors that are regional, national, or international in nature. You also may be asked to prioritize needs of organizations or funding. One difficult issue that affects local communities, but that also has national and international dimensions, is human trafficking.
For this Discussion, imagine that a foundation has provided your organization with grant of $100,000 to address the issue of human trafficking.
To Prepare:
•eview the Learning Resources and Course Announcements.
•Identify an organization that would work with issues related to human trafficking.
•Research organizations outside the United States with whom you could partner.
•Consider how you would use the grant at your organization: What would you fund and why?
By Day 4
•Describe the organization with which you will partner.
•To most effectively address human trafficking, explain how you would allocate the funding, and provide your rationale.

Full Answer Section

       
      • Legal representation: Providing legal assistance to victims of trafficking in criminal and civil proceedings.
      • Aftercare services: Supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of survivors through programs that address their physical, emotional, and psychological needs.
      • Community outreach and prevention: Funding initiatives to raise awareness about human trafficking within local communities and empower vulnerable populations.
  • Capacity Building for Local Organizations:

    • $30,000: Invest in capacity-building programs for local organizations working on anti-trafficking efforts. This could include:
      • Training programs: Providing training for local NGOs on victim identification, case management, legal advocacy, and trauma-informed care.
      • Technical assistance: Offering technical support and mentorship to local organizations to improve their program effectiveness and sustainability.
      • Resource sharing: Facilitating knowledge exchange and resource sharing between local organizations and IJM.
  • Advocacy and Policy Change:

    • $20,000: Support advocacy efforts aimed at strengthening anti-trafficking laws and policies at the national and international levels. This could include:
      • Policy research and analysis: Conducting research and developing policy recommendations to address the root causes of human trafficking.
      • Lobbying efforts: Engaging with policymakers and government officials to advocate for stronger anti-trafficking legislation.
      • Public awareness campaigns: Raising public awareness about human trafficking through media campaigns and public education initiatives.

Rationale:

This funding allocation prioritizes a multi-pronged approach:

  • Direct Impact: By supporting IJM's on-the-ground operations, we can directly contribute to the rescue of victims and the prosecution of traffickers.
  • Local Capacity Building: Strengthening local organizations will ensure long-term sustainability and impact in the fight against human trafficking.
  • Systemic Change: Advocating for policy change will address the root causes of human trafficking and create a more just and equitable society.

By partnering with IJM and supporting local organizations, we can leverage our resources to make a significant impact in the global fight against human trafficking.

Sample Answer

       

Partner Organization:

  • International Justice Mission (IJM): IJM is a global organization that works to rescue victims of slavery, sex trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. They operate in developing countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, partnering with local authorities to bring perpetrators to justice and provide long-term care for survivors.

Funding Allocation:

  • Direct Support to IJM's Field Offices:

    • $50,000: Allocate funds directly to IJM's field offices in regions where human trafficking is prevalent. This would support their on-the-ground efforts, including:
      • Rescue operations: Funding for investigations, raids, and the safe extraction of victims from exploitative situations.