Gaps in human trafficking data expose victims, hinder efforts to combat issue

Local authorities are concerned that the lack of data on human trafficking cases is undercutting efforts to tackle the issue and advocate for victims. 

Inieta Benaca, team leader of training and community development at Homes of Hope, revealed that the lack of prosecutions meant critical data on human trafficking reports was scarce.

"We are often the secondary recipients of this data," she said, during a panel discussion on ending exploitation at the University of the South Pacific yesterday. 

"As implementing partner on projects, we ask: 'Where's the data?'

"We are presented with newspaper cuttings of successful cases in Fiji. That's when we realise that unless and until it is prosecuted, it becomes data."

Ministry of Employment's Director of Labour Standards, Daniel Tagivakatini noted that there were also challenges with data sharing between Government agencies. 

"Different Government agencies have their data, but are somehow not talking to one another," he said.

"The National Action Plan ensures we strengthen data collection."

Underreporting of cases, he added, was a significant barrier.

"There are many victims out there, but getting them to come and report is a challenge for enforcement agencies," Mr Tagivakatini explained.

"The CSOs (civil society organisations) may have their processes in terms of victim protection, but we are not able to see how best we can help if we do not get the information."

Feedback: jernese.macanawai@fijisun.com.fj