Where are we now and where are we heading

ASEAN-ACT is a 10-year program designed to transition over this period from training to build individual knowledge and skills in countering trafficking, to a focus on building institutional capacity and supporting policy dialogue which is inclusive of civil society and the private sector.

During the first phase of the program (2019-2023), ASEAN-ACT invested significantly in capacity building for agencies responsible for detecting, investigating and prosecuting trafficking in persons.

We also supported ASEAN and targeted ASEAN Member States to develop strategies, policies and procedures to improve responses to trafficking in persons, with a particular focus on upholding victim rights and advancing gender equality, disability and social inclusion.

With civil society and think tanks, the first phase of the program generated new research on the vulnerability of certain groups to exploitation and the structural factors underpinning labour trafficking in the region, as well as implementing targeted grants for policy-engagement and dialogues.

Now that the building blocks are in place to understand and respond to trafficking in persons, our partnership with ASEAN and Member States has matured.

In Phase 2 (2024-2028), we will continue to support ASEAN and Member States to fulfil their ACTIP obligations, particularly those that relate to victim rights and gender equality, disability and social inclusion.

In consultation with our government and non-government partners, we will focus on addressing specific counter-trafficking challenges in four project key areas:

1. 1 Enhancing collaborating within and across sectors
2. 2 Institutionalising knowledge and professional development
3. 3 Improving transparency and accountability in trafficking in persons
4. 4 Cultivating counter-trafficking leadership and coordination