CHAPTER 4 - REPORT OF THE ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS WORKING GROUP (i) Raising awareness The curbing of trafficking requires a tremendous effort not only by the Government, but also the public. While the Government can provide mechanisms in terms of legislation, enforcement and protection and rehabilitation of victims, the public can assist by reporting suspected human trafficking cases and by assisting victims. There is a need to empower the public by giving them the required knowledge and training to play an effective role. Capacity-building programmes and Training-of-Trainers courses are among the activities the Government could implement. The Council could step up public awareness programmes to curb demand factors that contribute to human trafficking. (ii) Wider participation There is a need for the Government/Council to ensure that NGOs too have the opportunity to assist in efforts to address human trafficking. The role of NGOs is critical as many victims are more inclined to approach them, rather than the authorities. (iii) Training of enforcement officers The Government/Council should ensure that enforcement officers nationwide, especially those on the frontline, are provided with extensive training. A crucial topic to be included is the identification of suspected victims of human trafficking. (iv) Shelters for victims The Commission commends the steps taken by the Government/Council to increase the number of shelters for victims of human trafficking. The identification and gazetting of proposed shelters should be done expeditiously to prevent overcrowding in existing facilities. (v) Access to shelters In view of the difficulties expressed by the Indonesian Embassy, the Council should establish a procedure to be observed by diplomatic personnel, to enable them to meet with nationals placed in shelters. (vi) Protection and rehabilitation of victims In line with the Government/Council’s aim to adequately protect and rehabilitate victims of human trafficking, all shelters should be equipped with appropriate services such as counselling and programmes before reintegration. Such programmes could also become the means for victims to place their trust in the authorities, which could strengthen the victims’ willingness to give statements and testify against traffickers. 67