EFN is a dynamic network comprising NGOs, charities, churches, and individuals, each playing a crucial role in the fight against trafficking and exploitation. We recently spoke with three of our members and asked them three questions about their current projects and successes.: “Amar Dragoste” in Spain, “Blickfeld Menschenhandel e.V.” in Germany, and the “International Justice Mission” in Romania.
THE PRIMARY MISSIONS OF OUR ORGANISATIONS
Spain | Amar Dragoste
Since 2010, Amar Dragoste has been tirelessly working to combat social inequality and support women vulnerable to trafficking, sexual exploitation, and prostitution. Our sustainable and comprehensive intervention strategy focuses on both the root causes and the consequences of these issues. We aim to facilitate the recovery and social integration of survivors while preventing exploitation and reducing the demand for prostitution and pornography.
Germany | Blickfeld Menschenhandel e.V.
Blickfeld Menschenhandel e.V. raises public awareness about human trafficking and empowers individuals to act against it. Our educational curriculum for German-speaking youth aged 13 to 19 highlights the dangers of trafficking, promotes healthy relationships, and encourages safe online behavior. We also train professionals in various sectors to recognize and report trafficking and to effectively use our educational materials.
Romania | International Justice Mission (IJM)
IJM combats cross-border human trafficking by strengthening the Romanian justice system to identify victims and prosecute criminals. We collaborate with demand-side governments in the UK, Netherlands, and Germany to ensure comprehensive victim care and legal coordination. IJM plans to expand our presence to Bulgaria, Poland, and Hungary in the coming years.
CURRENT PROJECTS AND HIGHLIGHTS
Spain | Amar Dragoste
Amar Dragoste operates 12 national delegations, each with a Detection and Intervention Mobile Unit to identify female victims of trafficking and provide healthcare services. Our first Day Center opened in 2021, offering holistic support to women. Since then, the number of women assisted by our Information and Orientation Service has increased by 3000%. Due to this success, we are fundraising to open four additional Day Centers across Spain this year. Our goal is to provide support to all women in need without placing anyone on a waiting list.
In emergencies requiring immediate relocation, survivors are taken to one of our three Safe Homes, known as “Casas Refugio.” The most recent Safe Home opened its doors in early 2024.
Our work with survivors has highlighted the urgent need to address the root causes of trafficking, sexual exploitation, prostitution, and pornography. In response, we have established specialized teams engaged in political advocacy. Currently, laws and measures on pornography, online child protection, and prostitution are being debated. We ask for your prayers for the passing of laws that will bring freedom and restoration to Spain.
Germany | Blickfeld Menschenhandel e.V.
In September 2024, we will launch an exciting new project to create prevention materials for asylum-seeking youth, unaccompanied minors, and youth with learning disabilities or cognitive/behavioral challenges.
Additionally, our Executive Director is conducting research among convicted human traffickers as part of an EU-funded project with Gemeinsam gegen Menschenhandel. The findings will inform our prevention work and help develop guidelines for working with populations at risk of becoming traffickers.
Romania | International Justice Mission
IJM is about to complete the implementation of a grant from the US Department of State Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. This will culminate in a report titled “Voices for Justice – Strengthening the Proactive Criminal Justice Response in Romania.” You can find the report here.
The report’s recommendations and consultations have led to new legislation in Romania that eliminates suspended sentences for convicted traffickers and increases sentences for trafficking crimes and online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC). Since beginning our work in Romania in 2020, IJM has supported over 120 survivors, secured the conviction of more than 40 traffickers, and trained over 500 criminal justice professionals.
HOW EFN SUPPORTS OUR WORK
Spain | Amar Dragoste
Being part of EFN allows us to connect with a broad network of organizations working toward common goals. This collaboration helps us develop resources, improve training, and support each other, enhancing our impact and reach.
Germany | Blickfeld Menschenhandel e.V.
EFN provides a platform for learning and collaboration. The diverse organisations and experiences within the network offer insights into new trends, best practices, and evolving needs in anti-trafficking work. We have successfully found partners for large European projects through EFN.
Romania | International Justice Mission
EFN offers IJM invaluable support and encouragement, providing a strong European network. The knowledge and connections gained through EFN’s newsletters, online meetings, and conferences significantly benefit our work.
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