Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia. According to estimates, around 10% of the Cambodian population is staying illegally in Thailand, which is economically better off. The combination of ignorance, poverty, desperation and yet hope for a better life is the perfect breeding ground for human trafficking and exploitation, to which women and children in particular are defenseless.
Every year, tens of thousands of people on their way to or from Thailand end up in the town of Poipet, which is the most important border crossing to Thailand. They get stranded in one of the slums. Even the children have to pitch in as maltreated handmaidens, porters or waste collectors.
Since 2018, the Ursula Zindel-Hilti Foundation has supported the project work of Caritas Switzerland in Cambodia with a training centre for young women affected by human trafficking and violence. Now a project is being supported that combines prevention, protection and reintegration and also includes a child protection programme in Poipet.
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Prevention: The project creates access to information about necessary documents, administrative processes or the legal system. The communities are supported in conducting education campaigns and creating awareness about safe migration and especially the welfare of children. An important role is played by the "Kamrieng Migration Centre", which serves as an information point, training centre and coordination centre for migration issues.
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Protection: The project provides immediate and emergency assistance to children and young victims of trafficking and violence in the form of shelter, food and psychosocial support.
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Reintegration: The project supports children and young people in developing prospects through school education and regular employment.
Learn more about Caritas in Cambodia.