Free the Slaves, in collaboration with its partners in Mexico, conducted an intensive five-day training on the Community Liberation Initiative (CLI) in Mexico City. Representatives from three NGOs participated, learning strategies to combat forced labor and child exploitation.
A critical part of the training involved practical exercises based on real scenarios where participants will soon apply what they’ve learned in a project aimed at tackling modern slavery.
All stakeholders who participated in the training reported a significant improvement in their understanding of human trafficking and expressed feeling better prepared to implement anti-slavery strategies at the community level.
“I enjoyed sharing reflections with the team from different contexts, including the facilitator’s perspective. I like the community liberation model, and I feel that we need to continue deepening it so we can have an impact on this complex and painful reality for children.”
“I liked the training as a reinforcement of previous knowledge, and it helped me strengthen the vision and objectives that will be worked on during the project, including unforeseen situations.”
The CLI, an approach that works
The Community Liberation Model is designed to train NGOs, law enforcement, and community workers to develop strategies adapted to local contexts and replicate the knowledge they gain within their own communities. The program is structured around five key modules:
- Module 1: Mobilizes vulnerable communities and develops action plans and collective prevention strategies.
- Module 2: Focuses on protection, remediation, and providing support to victims.
- Module 3: Strengthens the rule of law by understanding relevant laws and international conventions.
- Module 4: Addresses access to essential social and economic services for reintegration.
- Module 5: Develops tools for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.
Strengthening Community Work and Local Action
The CLI Model is more than just a learning tool; it encourages the building of strong community networks. By the end of the training, participants crafted tailored action plans, ensuring that the solutions they implement will be long-lasting.
