09:00 – 10:00 CET

With over 50 million people trapped in modern slavery today, it can be overwhelming for legislators and governments to determine where to begin in reducing human trafficking and exploitation. A critical starting point is addressing the up to 5.4 million children who are institutionalised, many of whom live in unregulated orphanages or have been recruited into care for exploitative purposes—what is known as orphanage trafficking. This seminar will provide legislators with a deeper understanding of orphanage trafficking, its root causes, and the role they can play in preventing it through effective policy and legislative action.

The first part of the seminar will take the form of an “In Conversation” session, focusing on why orphanage trafficking occurs and what legislative measures can help combat it. The panel will discuss the factors driving orphanage trafficking, the roles of both sending and receiving countries, and how policymakers can develop effective solutions. It will highlight key legislative initiatives, share examples of successful reforms, and examine the responsibilities of donors and volunteers in preventing harm to vulnerable children.

The second part of the seminar will open the floor for Q&A, providing an opportunity for participants to engage with experts, share experiences, and discuss challenges in tackling orphanage trafficking at a policy level.

This webinar builds on the IPU resolution adopted in October 2023 Orphanage trafficking: The role of parliaments in reducing harm.

Panellists:

• Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC, Senator for Western Australia & Legislative Lead of the Inter-parliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking.
• Dr Kate van Doore, International child rights lawyer and globally recognised expert on orphanage trafficking.
• Hon. Anne Musiwa, Special Rapporteur for Children without Parental Care in the African Union.
• Stephen Ucembe, Regional Advocacy Manager for Hope and Homes and a lived experience expert.

Language(s): English, French, Spanish, Arabic