Human Trafficking Prosecution Project in Bangladesh: Endline Evaluation
Human trafficking remains a profound global and national challenge, characterized by the exploitation of individuals through coercion, deception, or abuse of power. In line with the Palermo Protocol, trafficking involves the recruitment, transport, and exploitation of persons for purposes such as forced labor, sexual exploitation, or organ removal. South Asia, particularly Bangladesh, remains vulnerable due to socio-economic disparities, porous borders, and systemic weaknesses. Despite legislative initiatives such as the Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking Act (2012) and National Plans of Action, challenges persist, including low conviction rates, prolonged prosecutions, and inadequate support for victims.
Justice and Care Bangladesh (JCBD) has been instrumental in addressing these gaps through its Human Trafficking Prosecution Programme. Working alongside the Ministry of Home Affairs and judicial authorities, JCBD supports victims, strengthens prosecutorial systems, facilitates interagency collaboration, and enhances capacity through strategic interventions. This endline evaluation aims to assess JCBD’s contributions to individual case outcomes and broader systemic reforms. It also explores stakeholder perspectives, capacity improvements, tool utilisation, and persisting challenges within the human trafficking prosecution landscape in Bangladesh.