JOINT PROGRAMME OF IOM AND UNODC UNDER UN.GIFT TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING IN BURUNDI AND RWANDA
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Location: Rwanda
Time Frame: Phase One: 6 months; Phase Two: 1 year Start Date: October 2011 Budget: Phase One- US$302,226, Phase Two - US$460,000 Pledges to Date: $302,226 (UN.GIFT) - Phase One |
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Background Information: Trafficking in human beings is a phenomenon on the rise in Eastern Africa, though awareness of it is still limited and hard data, documenting trends, is unavailable. Unrest in the region, poverty and limited livelihood alternatives and the scourge of HIV/AIDS make significant groups of the population vulnerable to trafficking.
Some initial efforts have been made in the region to document trafficking in persons activities and responses thereto. However, the lack of on-going statistical data, the fragmentary and anecdotal nature of current knowledge and disjointed responses are an obstacle to developing effective evidence-based policies. These deficiencies undoubtedly enable traffickers to operate with impunity.
In Rwanda limited awareness of the problem and incomplete implementation of anti-trafficking legislation mean that the criminal justice response to the problem is inadequate. Though trafficking offenses have been prosecuted in Rwanda, no convictions have been recorded. Furthermore, a lack of data coupled with deficiencies in capacity to identify victims of trafficking means assistance to victims is underdeveloped.
Brief description of the programme: The Joint Programme is expected to enhance the capacity of the Government of Rwanda and of other stakeholders to effectively address trafficking in persons through improved knowledge and awareness of the phenomenon, capacity building of relevant personnel and better protection of and assistance to victims.
The programme's specific objectives are: 1) To increase the knowledge and understanding of human trafficking amongst key stakeholders from the government and civil society; 2) To build capacity of law enforcement officials and immigration officers to identify and respond to cases of human trafficking; 3) To sensitize the Rwandan public and local leadership to the different forms of human trafficking and the risks associated; 4) To establish victim referral and assistance mechanisms through training and support.
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Contact:
Ms. Claudia Gioffre
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