The Fijian Government, through the Ministry of Defence, National Security and Policing, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Civil Society Organisations and Homes of Hope convened a dialogue on the development of a National Referral Mechanism for survivors of human trafficking in Fiji. Representatives from Civil Society Organisations, relevant Government Ministries and International Partners participated in the one-day dialogue at the Pearl Resort, in Navua.
Funded by the European Union (EU), the dialogue is the culmination of training and awareness programs conducted by IOM and Homes of Hope through the project on empowering civil society in Fiji in countering human trafficking.
"The establishment of the national referral mechanism is a key strategy outlined in the National Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy 2021-2026 and the National Action Plan that was endorsed by Cabinet last year. The Ministry of Defence acknowledges and thanks the International Organization for Migration, supported by the European Union, for collaborating with the Fijian Government and co-hosting this very important workshop on an issue that US and Global reports have identified Fiji to be a source, transit and the destination country of Trafficking in Person," said Deputy Commissioner for Fiji Police Force Mr Itendra Nair.
Also speaking at the event, the Programme Manager for Rule of Law, Access to Justice, Human Rights and Migration at the Delegation of the European Union for the Pacific, Mr Francesco Ponzoni said, "The European Union is delighted to support this dialogue that will evidently strengthen cooperation between civil society organisations and government in countering human trafficking in Fiji."
The participants discussed ways to strengthen cooperation, partnership and coordination to provide victim protection and assistance services in rehabilitating and reintegrating survivors of human trafficking and other forms of sexual and labour exploitation in Fiji.
"IOM is proud to jointly coordinate this dialogue with the Ministry of Defence, National Security & Policing, and Homes of Hope, and will continue to ensure a holistic approach is employed in providing crucial support services to vulnerable migrants and survivors of human trafficking and other forms of exploitation”, said Mr Solomon Kantha, Chief of Mission for IOM Fiji.
IOM, the UN Migration Agency, is implementing the EU funded project with local NGO Homes of Hope that provides long-term care, support and training for girls, young women and children who are victims of forced sex and other forms of abuse.