East, Central and Southern Africa regional report, Benedetta Wasonga

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Report summary

Meaningful and effective survivor engagement in international development policy and programming on modern slavery and human trafficking is a complex issue within Africa. Survivors, survivor leaders, and survivor-led organisations often face challenges such as a disconnect in the definitions of "survivor engagement" and "modern slavery," a lack of safeguarding protocols, and the impact of colonisation in donor funding, which exacerbates power imbalances between the Global South and Global North. Despite these challenges, survivor-centred approaches can significantly aid in survivors' recovery by rewarding and compensating them, restoring economic power, and improving mental health and self-esteem. However, while engaging survivors as experts offers recognition and hope, it also requires careful monitoring to prevent potential harm.