IOM hold an online meeting with Civil Society Organizations on 25th of January to discuss their engagement and capacity in the field of trafficking in human beings.

IOM presented results of a report which was based on individual interviews. In the long run, this initiative aims to increase the role of Civil Society Organizations in combatting trafficking in human beings. Meeting was attended by representatives of non-governmental organizations, including media outlets from Kutaisi, Batumi, Zugdidi, Telavi, Akhmeta and Tbilisi. Participants discussed challenges they face on the level of community and while interacting with the local governments. It was highlighted that utmost importance lies on the support of key coordinating body in fighting with trafficking in persons. Cooperation between non-governmental organizations and media is an effective way to increase visibility of the problem. In order this to achieve, it is key to accumulate fact-based knowledge and transform into practice.

This activity is implemented within IOM’s project “Joint action to combat Trafficking in Persons” (IACTA) supported by the US Department of State.