Laos: Help for Victims of Human Trafficking

Laos Bildung für Opfer von Menschenhandel

«Together with two other girls I was trafficked to Thailand. A family member promised a job in a massage shop where we would earn 5000 Baht (CHF 150) a month. In Thailand we were forced to have sex with the clients. After two months the police rescued me and sent me back to Laos. I stayed for nine months at the Sengsavang shelter. I went to school and to the tailoring course. With help of the Sengsavang team I filed a complaint against the trafficker. My case is on hold as he could not be found yet.»

Mounthip, human trafficking victim, Laos

Laos Berufsbildung Schneiderei

The project provides vocational trainings in tailoring/sewing, cooking, beauty and agriculture (course duration 5 to 8 months). The shelter offers its own vocational training centre, buildings for agriculture and two shops (hairdressing/beauty; sewing) that allow practical training in businesses. After the training, the beneficiaries receive a certificate issued by the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare. The project staff supports the girls in finding a job or opening their own shop.

The project provides non-formal education (NFE) at the shelter. NFE allows students to do accelerated studies in primary and/or secondary school (up to grade 9) where the content of a school year is condensed to 3 months. For grades 10-12 the girls can attend a NFE-school close to the shelter. Certificates gained through this program are issued by the Ministry of Education.

Laos Grundbildung für Opfer von Menschenhandel

Sengsavang provides protection and assistance to victims and girls at risk of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. The organisation applies an approach of holistic care and recovery. Sengsavangs activities also include prevention and awareness raising, advocacy and campaigning as well as representation and participation in women's issues at national and international forums.