June 21, 2005
No. 29/05

U.S. Government Provides Funds to Assist Efforts in Prevention of Trafficking of Women and Children

Addis Ababa (U.S. Embassy) -- The United States Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has provided funding of US$412,485 (3,567,995Birr) to the International Organization on Migration (IOM) to expand its efforts to prevent trafficking of women and children. IOM has partnered with Ethiopian organizations including the Good Samaritan Association which provided training for 11 trafficked victims and granted certificates for their skills training in leather work, photography and driving in a graduation ceremony on June 21.

Of these 11 trafficked victims, one is a male, 10 are female, and all came back to Ethiopia from Lebanon.  Although the problem of trafficking needs to be addressed at the root causes, providing economic opportunities for citizens vulnerable to trafficking is essential so that they do not have to accept dubious employment outside the country or turn to other high risk activities to earn their living.

United States Ambassador Aurelia Brazeal remarked at the graduation ceremony, "Although it is important to attack the root causes of human trafficking, it is equally important to recognize and address its human consequences at an individual level.  I am sure that these graduates will be able to use the skills that they have acquired to build a new life - "Addis Hiwot".

The Addis Hiwot Center for Trafficked Women, managed by the Good Samaritan Association, is the first of its kind in Ethiopia, and opened its doors one year ago.  The Center has been providing shelter for women and men who have returned to Ethiopia after undergoing psychological, physical, social and sexual abuse while working outside of this country.

According to United States Government estimates, 800,000 to 900,000 victims are trafficked globally each year. Women and children comprise the largest group of victims. The low status and vulnerability of women, combined with poverty and the expanding global markets for sex and cheap labor are at the root of trafficking.

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