Nearly 50 entrepreneurs committed to the economic integration of trafficking survivors

LIMA (OIT News) ― Within the framework of the National Day Against Trafficking in Persons, nearly 50 representatives from Peruvian companies convened today to identify concrete ways to aid the economic integration of young survivors of human trafficking in persons.

I am convinced that intersectoral collaboration and partnerships between the public and private sectors can transform lives. It is vital to witness your commitment, as businesses, to support these individuals in pursuing their life goals, ensuring that no one is left behind in our country and that everyone has equal opportunities!

Yolanda Erazo Flores, Vice-Minister of Labor, Ministry of Labor and Employment Promotion

The workshop was organized by the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations (MIMP), the National Comprehensive Program for Family Welfare (INABIF), and the National Confederation of Private Business Institutions (CONFIEP), as part of the ILO project "Partnerships in Action to End Child Trafficking in Peru".

We commend Peru's efforts to strengthen partnerships against trafficking in persons, and we particularly recognize the resilience of these young women who have bravely confronted this crime. The private sector stands ready to engage in various initiatives aimed at promoting their empowerment, autonomy, and successful employment.

Jenny Isabel Vento Curi, President of CONFIEP's National Committee on Business and Human Rights

During the event, entrepreneurs discussed various collaborative approaches to support capacity building and future job placement for adolescents and young women residing in Specialized Shelters for Trafficking Victims (CAR).

These collaboration avenues are outlined in the Guide for the Economic Independence of Trafficking Survivors, developed by the General Directorate for Children and Adolescents of MIMP and approved by Directorial Resolution 125-2024-MIMP-DGNNA.

I would like to especially commend the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations for their efforts and political will. The approval of this Guide is crucial for sustaining public-private cooperation aimed at the economic integration of young trafficking survivors.

Ítalo Cardona, ILO Director for the Andean Countries.

In the participatory development of this Guide, which began in February 2023 with technical support from the ILO, several companies convened by CONFIEP contributed valuable insights. Since then, under the framework of Responsible Business Conduct (RBC), these companies have been providing resources, knowledge, and opportunities for survivors of trafficking ageing out of INABIF's Shelters.

As a result of the workshop, César Vallejo University committed to offering a scholarship for a young trafficking survivor to study engineering. Additionally, the San Roman Foundation pledged five scholarships through its Nova School of Pastry and Confectionery, which will include supplies and tools to help students apply their learning in practice.

As a result of the workshop, César Vallejo University committed to offering a scholarship for a young trafficking survivor to study engineering. Additionally, the San Roman Foundation pledged five scholarships through its Nova School of Pastry and Confectionery, which will include supplies and tools to help students apply their learning in practice.

These businesses are joining the ranks of socially responsible companies in Lima and Cusco that are already voluntarily supporting the training of young women and adolescents. Their efforts include purchasing products made by survivors in their initial ventures and providing income-generating opportunities for the survivors' families, among other initiatives that enhance skills and improve future employability prospects.

Young women graduating from a CAR will need the opportunity to access employment. I know that you will provide all the support they need, and we at INABIF will work to ensure that this partnership with the private sector is sustainable. This collaboration will enable us to continue developing the skills of our adolescents and building their capacities so they can achieve their life goals.

Jessica Melina Ruiz Atau, Executive Director of INABIF