Description
The objective of the project is to improve level of providing and access to social services for victims of human trafficking. Target group is represented by romanian NGOs and institutions active in providing social services and the victims of human trafficking. As results expected are: detailed Romanian-Norwegian mapping of social services provided for victims; transfer of best practices from Norway to Romania; create human resource of specialists capable to provide social services to high standards; development of a functional transnational referral system concerning victims: Collaboration in the project will strengthen the networks between Norwegian-Romanian NGOs active in assisting victims. Norwegian partner organization will contribute with its expertise in assisting victims.
Summary of project results
The project was developed in the context of multiple factors that affect the provision of quality assistance to victims of human trafficking: insufficient professionals capable to provide quality services, lack of sustainable cooperation between institutions and NGOs in both Romania as well as destination countries, such as Norway. According to official statistics, Romania was during the years a main country of origin for victims of human trafficking (exploited in Romania and abroad). A research was conducted, aiming to obtain a clear image of services provided and of the existing problems. 4 Romanian experts participated to a study visit in Norway where they learned about how assistance is delivered in Norway. The visit included meetings between Romanian participants and Norwegian professionals from Pro Sentret organisation, Police Department, Red Cross, Laura Huss Shelter, Fafo Research Institute. A training manual was developed and a course was delivered for 21 Romanian social workers and psychologists from local NGOs and General Directorates for Social Assistance and Child Protection. 40 victims of human trafficking received social and legal counselling and assistance, the most common forms of trafficking being sexual and labour exploitation. As a result of the project, the collaboration between NGOs and institutions (as General Directorates for Social Assistance and Child Protection and Regional Centres of the National Agency against Trafficking of Persons) improved. A sustainable dialogue regarding identification of victims and their referral for support continues after the end of the project. A good practice guide on social services for this specific vulnerable group was elaborated and disseminated in Romania and Norway.
Summary of bilateral results
Pro Sentret supported the Promoter in developing a transnational research study on assistance services in Norway and Romania. Norwegian participants attended the launching conference that took place in Bucharest in 2014. In 2015 Pro Sentret provided support for the implementation of a study visit in Oslo and facilitated meetings with relevant Norwegian stakeholders in fighting against human trafficking and providing assistance for the victims (KOK Special Police Department, Red Cross, Laura Hus Center, Child Protection Assistance Department).