Following the earthquakes in Nepal, Swatantrata Abhiyan, Gramin Mahila Srijanseel Parivar, and Free the Slaves Nepal conducted action research, supported by the Freedom Fund, to address increased risks of trafficking, violence, and abuse in affected areas. The research aimed to strengthen community-based protection mechanisms and involved desk reviews, interviews, workshops for frontline workers, and follow-up visits.
The report Understanding Vulnerabilities and Strengthening Response. Community-based Integration of Anti-trafficking and Human Rights Protections within Post-Earthquake Recovery Efforts in Sindhupalchok District, Nepal, August – December 2015 presents the research results. Key findings highlighted increased vulnerability to trafficking due to factors like inadequate relief supplies and unsafe shelters. Violence and abuse against children also escalated post-earthquake, with issues such as neglect, early marriage, and sexual harassment identified. However, community-based interventions showed promise in protecting vulnerable populations.
Key recommendations include prioritising protection activities in disaster-prone areas, facilitating access to social protection schemes, revitalising local protection committees, integrating protection measures across relief efforts, and leveraging local knowledge of frontline workers. The research underscores the importance of community involvement, coordination among relief agencies, and integrating protection into all relief efforts to combat trafficking and violence in post-disaster settings effectively.
Click here or on the image below to access the report.
