Palau – Palau, a nation grappling with out-migration and reliance on foreign workers, acknowledged its vulnerability to human trafficking but showcased significant strides in its anti-trafficking program. The island nation, known for its pristine marine environment and UNESCO-listed Rock Islands, also welcomed a new partnership with USAID to bolster its efforts.
Palau, historically on the U.S. Department of State’s Tier 2 Watchlist, was upgraded to Tier 2 in the 2023 TIP Report, recognizing its progress. However, the government emphasized its commitment to reaching Tier 1.
“We have been making significant efforts to strengthen our anti-human trafficking program,” stated Vice President Uduch Sengebau-Senior, highlighting key developments like:
- Strengthened Legislation: The amended Anti-Human Trafficking Act, passed in April 2023, refined offenses, increased penalties, and mandated both fines and imprisonment.
- Improved Procedures: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for victim identification, referrals, and investigations are being implemented, fostering inter-agency collaboration.
- Enhanced Partnerships: Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with various stakeholders solidify roles and responsibilities.
- National Action Plan Update: Revised SOPs and the National Action Plan (NAP) align with new legislation and incorporate new program ideas.
The launch of the USAID Pacific RISE CTIP program further bolsters these efforts. “The program will greatly assist us in building capacities across all four pillars: prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnership,” President Surangel Whipps Jr. said at the launch yesterday.
CTIP will support border control, raise awareness among vulnerable populations, and complement existing initiatives like the Anti-Human Trafficking Working Group and the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU).
“We are particularly grateful for the participation and support of our civil society organizations and development partners,” – said Ms. Paula Miller, USAID Country Coordinator for Palau.
Palau’s commitment to combating human trafficking, evident in its concrete steps and partnerships, paves the way for further progress toward a Tier 1 ranking.