This $2 million project implemented by free the slaves (FTS) aims to empower persons with lived experience (PLE) of labor exploitation to actively collaborate with the government in addressing labor…

This $2 million project implemented by free the slaves (FTS) aims to empower persons with lived experience (PLE) of labor exploitation to actively collaborate with the government in addressing labor exploitation and improving labor conditions in the philippines. The project focuses on organizing, training, and mobilizing PLE into networks that facilitate meaningful engagement in policymaking and implementation. Additionally, IT provides government with technical assistance to enhance their capacity to effectively engage PLE, fostering more inclusive anti-labor exploitation strategies. The project aims to integrate PLE into government efforts to combat labor exploitation. Initially, IT focuses on building networks and relationships, conducting a baseline assessment of PLE integration in target countries, and mobilizing and assisting them to formalize networks. Phase two involves training PLE members in policymaking, leadership, project evaluation, and government engagement. In phase three, PLE networks develop recommendations for improving government interventions and engaging with governments to present their recommendations. Phase four formalizes ongoing collaboration between PLE networks and governments.simultaneously, the project engages government officials, starting with a needs assessment of their willingness to include PLE in anti-slavery efforts and essential relationship building. Phase two focuses on training government stakeholders in trauma-informed engagement and developing a framework for PLE involvement. In phase three, governments create safe spaces for PLE to contribute to government efforts to address labor exploitation. Phase four formalizes ongoing collaboration frameworks with PLE networks.partnerships for development assistance in the philippines (pdap) is a sub-awardee which partners with three local organizations deeply rooted in their respective communities: balaod mindanaw, atikha overseas workers and communities initiative INC., and katilinghban SA kalambuan (KII). A centralized coordination body comprised of FTS, pdap, local partners, and PLE representatives ensures synergy, streamlined implementation, and impactful outcomes. As the sub-awardee, pdap manages partnerships, provides capacity-building support, oversees activity implementation, monitors progress, and aligns advocacy efforts, training modules, and policies at national and regional levels. Local partners leverage their community roots to conduct baseline assessments, deliver culturally sensitive training, provide psychosocial support, foster PLE leadership, and collaborate with government stakeholders on policy reforms. Key contributions include balaod mindanaw s focus on paralegal services and advocacy, atikhas training for fisherfolk and migrant workers, and kkis efforts to strengthen community networks and address labor exploitation in the fishing industry.expected outcomesoutcome 1: persons with lived experience are empowered to engage with the government on mechanisms, policies, and programs to combat labor exploitation.outcome 2: government actively engages persons with lived experience in developing and implementing mechanisms, policies, and programs to combat labor exploitation.intended beneficiaries PLE of labor exploitation key government stakeholders