An assessment of the role of nongovernment organizations in combating trafficking of women and children in Cambodia and Viet Nam

Abstract

Human trafficking in general, and the trafficking of women and children in particular, is a major concern worldwide, including in the countries of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). Many nongovernment organizations (NGOs) in the GMS play an active role in supporting anti-trafficking programs. These include the Save the Children Cross-Border Project Against Trafficking and Exploitation of Migrant and Vulnerable Children, and the Combating Human Trafficking in Vietnam program of the Asia Foundation. Despite many successes, NGOs are still confronted with numerous difficulties in effectively implementing anti-trafficking programs. This study investigates the roles of NGOs in combating the trafficking of women and children in Cambodia and Viet Nam. It assesses the coordination mechanism between the government and NGOs, as well as among NGOs. It also evaluates the NGOs’ effectiveness in combating trafficking in women and children in the two GMS countries. The study uses both primary and secondary data. Primary data were gathered through structured interviews with NGO staff in charge of women and children anti-trafficking programs and projects in Cambodia and Viet Nam. Secondary data include published books, reports, and materials from the government and NGOs. The data are analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively to draw out results and make recommendations.