The report Preventing trafficking and protecting vulnerable young women through economic empowerment, by Yuki Lo, Richard Johnson, Shomsia Ali and Seth Opuni, presents a study aimed at understanding the labour market conditions and the challenges faced by young women in communities with high rates of human trafficking across Ethiopia, Nepal, and India. The research employed interviews and focus group discussions with 226 stakeholders, primarily young women aged 16 to 25. The study was conducted in four stages, tailored to each location’s unique context, to gather insights into the specific needs and experiences of marginalised populations.
Findings reveal that young women often face significant barriers to accessing quality employment, including limited skills training and a lack of support for self-employment. The study emphasises the need for demand-led training programs that involve local employers and provide post-placement support. Recommendations include enhancing government services to address vulnerabilities, incentivising better employer practices, and fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors to create complementary training and employability programs. Ultimately, the study advocates for a holistic approach to empower young women economically, thereby reducing their risk of exploitation and trafficking.
Click here or on the image below to access the report.
