Since October 2023, Free the Slaves has focused on initiatives designed to elevate and amplify the voices of survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking. These initiatives, including participation in the Alliance 8.7 program and strategic involvement in governmental meetings, underscore our commitment to empowering survivors and making their experiences central to the fight against exploitation. Our work in Kenya and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is part of a broader effort to develop roadmaps for these countries to achieve pathfinder status, serving as a model for others in the global fight against slavery.
Survivor Engagement Initiatives: Building Trust and Empowerment
At the core of our survivor engagement efforts is the creation of safe, supportive environments where survivors can share their stories, insights, and experiences without fear of judgment. This approach not only builds trust but also empowers survivors to transition from victims to advocates, playing crucial roles in the fight against modern slavery. Facilitators prioritize respect and understanding, enabling survivors to develop strategies that are deeply informed by their lived experiences.
Highlighting Key Programs and Achievements
Our survivor engagement initiatives have resulted in several significant achievements:
- Government Strategic Meetings: On March 21-22, 2024, Free the Slaves participated in key meetings to refine Kenya’s path to becoming a pathfinder country, highlighting our role in shaping national anti-modern slavery policies.
- International Labour Organization (ILO) Africa Conference: Survivors from our programs attended and contributed to discussions at the ILO Africa conference on child labor in Naivasha, Kenya, underscoring the importance of survivor perspectives in addressing this issue.
- Universal Periodic Review (UPR): Survivors contributed to drafting recommendations during the fourth cycle of the UPR, influencing human rights policies at an international level.
- Alliance 8.7 Webinars and Forums: Survivors shared their experiences during an Alliance 8.7 webinar and participated in the European Regional Forum, further amplifying their voices on global platforms.
- Training and Empowerment: We have trained approximately 140 survivors in Kenya and the DRC, equipping them with the skills needed to advocate for policy changes on modern slavery and human trafficking.
- Upcoming Launch of Survivor Network Kenya: This network, born from our empowerment and capacity-building efforts, represents a significant step forward in survivor-led advocacy in Kenya.
Ongoing Support and Advocacy
Free the Slaves is committed to providing ongoing support to survivor-led initiatives like Survivor Network Kenya. Our capacity-building programs focus on advocacy, public speaking, and leadership, enabling survivors to influence policy and contribute to national and international anti-modern slavery strategies. Empowered through initiatives like the Alliance 8.7 program, survivors are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to become effective advocates for change.
“I appreciate the platform created by Free the Slaves. It has bolstered my confidence and enabled me to advocate for my rights as a survivor.” – Survivor Leader
“Free the Slaves has exposed me to platforms I didn’t know I could participate in. They’ve helped me package myself and understood us as survivors without judgment.” – Survivor Advocate
Collaborative Impact: Working Together for Lasting Change
Our approach to survivor engagement is rooted in collaboration, demonstrating the power of collective action in the fight against modern slavery. By creating spaces where survivors can lead and advocate for their rights, we not only empower individuals but also strengthen global efforts to end modern slavery.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to a Future Free from Slavery
Free the Slaves remains unwavering in its commitment to a future free from modern slavery and trafficking. By amplifying the voices of survivors, shaping policy recommendations, and guiding advocacy efforts, Free the Slaves plays a critical role in the Alliance 8.7 initiative. Our work supports countries in achieving pathfinder status and drives forward global efforts to eradicate modern slavery.
