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MWL Programs

Human Trafficking (Advice and Service Centres - ASC)

Direct response: serving victims and survivors through comprehensive life-changing services

Over the past xxx years, we have established 6 Advice and Service Centres (ASCs) in Tirana, Tropoja, Rreshen, Lezha, Lushnja and Saranda. Our centres provide a range of advice, advocacy and support services to victims of human trafficking, domestic violence, sexual abuse, women seeking divorce and other vulnerable individuals. The centres are open xx days a week and are Direct services that we offer are:

  • Psychological aid: to help victims recover from the trauma and shame surrounding trafficking
  • Legal aid: for those seeking divorce and rescued migrants seeking refuge in Albania.
  • Healthcare services: medical and dental care….
  • Emergency food packages: xxxx
  • Rent and accommodation aid: xxxx

Historically, we have seen mainly Albanian women come through our ASCs, but there is an increasing number of people from war-torn countries coming to the centres, many of whom are male minors.

Diversity and Social Inclusion (DSI)

For many young people, finding employment represents a real challenge. Albania is one of the poorest countries in Europe and poverty is directly linked to human trafficking. Economic stress can also act as a trigger for violence (against family members). Our programmes provide internships and employment opportunities for young people aged 18-25 to help them achieve economic stability.

These projects equip participants with skills and training in in-demand areas of work such as Hairdressing, Plumbing and Tailoring. We start by helping with individuals identify their areas of professional interest and then we work to place them in relevant work internships to develop their skills. In previous years almost all participants of our programs secured full-time employment as a direct result of their new skills.

Additionally, we assist with CV writing, interview training and business plans with a view to raise start-up funding for entrepreneurs.

Research Education Training and Advocacy (RETA)

Through education we raise awareness of the dangers of trafficking and work to protect young people in local communities. Our Human Development courses focus on the ways in which traffickers work, domestic violence. We also work to make women aware of their rights and social benefits to which they are entitled, which in turn brings empowerment and change to their lives (QUOTE from DORINA testimonial?)

  • We train local officials (including Border Police), teachers, social workers, nurses and doctors to identify children at risk of human trafficking.
  • We work with communities to identify local needs and instigate beneficial programmes in their areas. GANC video here discussing the children’s hospital. Bringing local communities together strengthens them and makes them more resilient to traffickers.
  • Because discussions surrounding sexual exploitation and abuse in Albania remain a taboo subject, there is a general reluctance within government institutions and NGOs to publicly confront such crimes. We continuously put pressure on governments to address these issues.
  • We work diligently to raise ethical standards in education explain? and work with local communities to put these standards into practice.