The Trafficking of Men in the Fishing Industry and Other High Risk Employment Sectors in Selected Countries of the Greater Mekong Sub-Region illustrates the ability of IOM Development Fund projects to initiate critical capacity building activities resulting in long-term systemic change.

The project, a joint effort with the Government of Thailand, was established in 2008 with seed funding (USD 84,562) from the IOM Development Fund. The initial IOM Development Fund project was subsequently complemented by G/TIP funding from the US Government, leading to a comprehensive multi-dimensional project.  

The project targeted law enforcement and protection authorities and focused on raising awareness and increasing understanding around the issue of trafficked men. Additionally, the project addressed the need for systematic mechanisms to assist male victims of trafficking, including technical training in identification and establishing a referral network.

In conjunction with the G/TIP funding, the project also initiated a research study in Thailand and Cambodia on trafficking of men and the existing legislative and regulatory frameworks. The additional US funding also provided for the protection and assisted voluntary return home of the victims. 

The need for increasing awareness on male trafficking victims and expanding victim’s assistance programmes in the region was highlighted in December 2011 when a group of trafficked Cambodian fishermen were rescued in Indonesia. See recent news on this topic at: http://www.rfa.org/english/news/cambodia/traffickers-02092012154922.html