This research project, to be undertaken by the IOM in close collaboration with the benefiting governments, aims to study and assess the current situation regarding the trafficking phenomenon, particularly women and children, within part of the MERCOSUR region and Chile. IOM will engage government agencies, NGOs and other agencies/organizations in the region, to share available information on the trafficking phenomenon in these countries. To support information gathered from official sources, IOM will meet with women’s and youth groups working with persons who are potentially vulnerable to trafficking. The study will: 1) define trafficking within the regional context, 2) outline trends and use available information to draw up recommendations for the Governments, 3) publish a report on trafficking within and from the Region, and 4) contribute towards establishing a network of governmental, NGO and IGO partners in order to prevent trafficking and assist its victims. This project will build on the global expertise of IOM in combating trafficking in human beings.
The initial benefiting Member States include Argentina, Chile and Uruguay. Brazil has expressed possible interest in the project, and will be included in activities once/if their interest is confirmed.