In the lead up to World Day against Trafficking in Persons (30 July), this webinar centres on the protection of trafficked victims and their right to access compensation.

Victims of human trafficking experience multi-faceted forms of trauma and abuse.

In most jurisdictions in ASEAN Member States, victims of trafficking have a right to access compensation as part of seeking justice and restitution.

However, victims of trafficking in our region are often not aware of their right to compensation and how to access it. This, in turn, limits their ability to make an informed decision about whether to participate in an investigation or prosecution of a trafficking in persons case.

Victims that do decide to participate in judicial proceedings are often not provided with adequate information and support to file for compensation.

Consequently, the awarding of compensation in connection with trafficking in persons cases is rare, and victims can often end up worse-off financially as a result of participating in legal proceedings.

So what is compensation and how is it administered?

How is it different from restitution? On what basis is compensation filed?

Are the procedures accessible and manageable for the victims?

Will acquittal from a criminal action bar a civil action?

What is the role of the law enforcers, prosecutors, judges, and private lawyers?

Where are funds for victim compensation sourced?

This webinar features international and regional experts who discuss the key concepts underpinning victim compensation:

• the basis and procedures for claiming compensation
• modes of administering compensation
• options for sourcing compensation
• good practices and challenges in implementing compensation programs
• recommendations to take forward.

 

Download the presentations here:

• Lao Women’s Union presentation
• Thailand’s Representative to ACWC​ presentation
• The Human Trafficking Legal Center presentation