Contributed by: Vanja Mikulic and Irena Milatovic, Montenegro National VAW Monitors

Since it was established in 1999, NGO Montenegrin Women’s Lobby, based in Podgorica, is working on recognition and existence of the problem of trafficking in human beings in Montenegro, and is involved in prevention and combating of this form of violence. Activists of this NGO consider trafficking in human beings as a multiple problem for individuals who are faced with it, as well as for the society in general, with unforeseeable consequences.

With the aim of prevention and protection of victims of trafficking, as well as for the education of population regarding the trafficking issue, NGO Montenegrin Women’s Lobby (MWL) is running two important projects which complement and permeate each other: SOS hotline and Shelter for victims of trafficking in human beings.

SOS hotline for victims of trafficking in human beings – The project was established four years ago (in 2001), and from the start it was supported by OSCE and US Consulate in Podgorica.

Activists of MWL, engaged in this project, are educated and sensitized for providing help over the phone to the potential victims and citizens, and provide those who are calling with precious information on phenomena of trafficking and its consequences. Besides, citizens/parents/relatives usually give important information and express doubts regarding the place of trafficking and its perpetrators. If citizens/parents/relatives agree, that information is to be directed to Special Anti-trafficking team. Otherwise, every information is strictly confidential.

SOS hotline for victims of trafficking in human beings is available 24 hours per day, and usually activists receive 2-3 calls daily. During realization of media campaigns, aimed to raise awareness on phenomena of trafficking (such are: “She can be your daughter, sister, wife…”, “Help her!”, “Call for help”, Trafficking in human beings – my, yours, our, social and global problem”), the number of calls is to be increased.

Shelter for victims of trafficking in human beings – Second important project of MWL, started last year (2004), program and financial supported by Government of the Republic of Montenegro and International Organization for Migration (IOM). Shelter offers victims of trafficking safe temporarily placement, as well as free legal, psychological and attorney’s support. This shelter is mainly designed for women and children, but it can provide temporarily protection and help to men victims of trafficking.

Five trained, educated and sensitized activists work in the shelter, “armed” with patience, tolerance, esteem, and understanding for the victims of trafficking. Shelter is open 24 hours per day, regardless weekend or holidays. Beside the activists, shelter has expert team consisted of psychologists, lawyer, attorney and pedagogue.

From its establishment, shelter provided/is providing help to domestic and foreign citizens – survivors of trafficking in human beings.

For the latest report on number and characteristics of the victims please click here.

Source: Montenegrin Women’s Lobby (MWL)