THE IMPACT OF GLOBAL CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS IN COMBATING HUMAN TRAFFICKING

The objective of this research is to analyze the impact that global civil society organizations (CSOs) have in the prevention, care and fight against human trafficking. The research was carried out using the multi-case study method. Six CSOs were analyzed: The A21 Campaign; Coalition to abolish slavery & trafficking; Stop the traffic: people shouldn't be bought or sold; International Justice Mission: End Slavery in Our Lifetime; Polaris Project; and Free the slaves. In the first phase, a documentary methodology was used, based on the use of annual reports of the CSOs investigated, academic articles, data and information existing on the official portals of the CSOs, international organizations and government pages. The second phase was qualitative, through semi-structured interviews with CSO managers and academic experts. The main direct actions carried out by CSOs have to do with: medical, psychological support and accompaniment to victims; social reintegration and settlement programs for surviving victims; operation of shelters, shelters and homes for protection and rehabilitation for victims; legal advice to victims; training, identification and prevention campaigns; education through social platforms; public talks and testimonials; awareness workshops; national and international attention and complaint lines; technological applications for anonymous reporting; and digital georeferencing of human trafficking routes for the use of authorities. While advocacy actions are related to: legislative advocacy: co-sponsorship of laws, review and support for the creation or modifications of laws; collaboration with international organizations, private institutions and other CSOs; participation in government councils and committees; participation in intergovernmental and inter-institutional meetings; participation in regional forums; creation of work groups; and peaceful marches and protests.