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USAID LAOS COUNTER TRAFFICKING-IN-PERSONS PROJECT QUARTER 3 PROGRESS REPORT, FISCAL YEAR 4 2021 APRIL 1, 2021 –JUNE 30, 2021

Submitted to United States Agency for International Development Regional Development Mission for Asia Submitted by Winrock International 2121 Crystal Drive Arlington, Virginia 22202

July 30, 2021

Cooperative Agreement No. AID-486-LA-17-00003

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Table of Contents Abbreviations .................................................................................................................................. 3

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................................... 4

I. Project Description .................................................................................................................. 6

II. Summary of Activities and Progress ........................................................................................ 7

A. IR1: Government of Lao PDR response to lead anti-human trafficking efforts strengthened ......... 7

Sub IR 1.1: Improved coordination among GOL agencies .................................................................... 7

Sub-IR 1.2: Improved cooperation between GOL and CTIP stakeholders on countering human trafficking .............................................................................................................................................. 8

B. IR2: Access to economic opportunities and employment among target vulnerable populations improved ................................................................................................................................................... 8

Sub-IR 2.1: Skills training based on labor market needs, including entrepreneurship development, provided to targeted vulnerable populations ....................................................................................... 8

Sub-IR 2.2: Private sector partnership to offer economic and employment opportunities and safe migration services to targeted populations enhanced ....................................................................... 13

C. IR3: Access to support and services among trafficked persons increased ..................................... 14

Sub-IR 3.1: Identification of trafficked persons improved .................................................................. 14

Sub-IR 3.2: Availability and quality of services provided to trafficked persons improved ................. 17

III. Coordination Efforts .............................................................................................................. 18

IV. Program Management .......................................................................................................... 20

V. Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) ......................................................................... 21

VI. Status and Analysis of Budget Expenditure ........................................................................... 29

VII. Lessons Learned, and Challenges and Problems Encountered ............................................. 29

VIII. Y4 Q4 Upcoming Plan and Activities ..................................................................................... 30

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Abbreviations ADWLE Association for Development of Women and Legal Education ATD Anti-Human Trafficking Department CPN Child Protection Networks CSE Child Sexual Exploitation CSO Civil Society Organization CTIP Counter-Trafficking in Persons DQA Data Quality Assessment ESF Economic Support Fund GOL Government of Laos HO Winrock International’s Home Office IEC Information, Education, Communication ILO International Labor Organization IOM International Organization for Migration IP Implementing Partner LFTU Lao Federation Trade Union LSW Labor and Social Welfare LWU Lao Women’s Union LYU Lao Youth Union MEL Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning MELP Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Plan MICT Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism MLSW Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare MOE Ministry of Education MOFA Ministry of Foreign Affairs MOU Memorandum of Understanding MSC Minimum Standard of Care NPA National Plan of Action NS National Secretariat PIRS Performance Indicator Reference Sheet PLSW Provincial Labor and Social Welfare Q Quarter SSV Sengsavang TIP Trafficking in persons USAID United States Agency for International Development VFI Village Focus International VID Victims identification Y Year YAAT Youth Action Against Trafficking

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Executive Summary Year 4 Quarter 3 (Y4Q3) was a challenging period for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Laos Counter Trafficking in Persons (CTIP) Project due to the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown. Meeting and inter-provincial travel restrictions delayed several planned activities including meetings, workshops, trainings, and community-level beneficiary identification. For example, Laos CTIP had to postpone planned Child Protection Networks (CPNs) strengthening activities in Vientiane and at the provincial level due to the COVID-19 restrictions. Although project staff were required to work from home for most of the reporting period, they used the time to prepare for upcoming activities such as preparing for and following-up on the USAID data quality assessment (DQA); coordinating with the Government of Laos (GOL) People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) and sub-awardees for upcoming activities over email and phone; planning, designing, and distributing new information, education, and communication (IEC) materials; procuring in-kind items for Lao Women’s Union (LWU) shelters; and planning and preparing for the project’s COVID-19 response TIP prevention brochures and essential items distribution for returned migrant workers at quarantine centers.

Despite the lockdown challenges, Laos CTIP worked closely with key GOL partners on project activities during Q3. Winrock International submitted an official letter to the Ministry of Labor and Social Work (MLSW) proposing to amend its current memorandum of understanding (MOU) to reflect the additional funding from USAID and planned expansion of the intervention to two northern provinces. To prepare for the amendment, MLSW requested that Laos CTIP conduct an internal mid-term evaluation with MLSW and the relevant government ministries and include a field visit to four target provinces1. At the time of reporting, the MOU amendment is still pending as the mid-term evaluation, mid-term review meeting, and revised documents will occur in August.

Laos CTIP also held meetings with several key government stakeholders including with the new Director General of the Anti-Trafficking Department (ATD) as a courtesy call; Deputy of the Media Department and TIP focal person from the Ministry of Information Culture and Tourism (MICT) to discuss collaborating on the development of the IEC materials on TIP prevention and the workshop on TIP and media; Counselling and Protection Center of LWU for coordinating the in-kind contribution; LWU to discuss development of the Lao National Minimum Standards of Care; and MLSW and sub-awardees regarding distributing essential items and IEC materials at quarantine centers in target provinces. Details are summarized as below.

IR 1: Government of Lao PDR response to lead anti-human trafficking efforts strengthened. GOL delays and the on-going COVID-19 precautions and lockdown affected activity implementation. As GOL has not yet approved the third National Plan of Action (NPA) for Human Trafficking in Persons, Laos CTIP’s support to develop a sub-plan has not advanced. While the Party Congress and the prolonged appointment of new cabinet members in March-April 2021 originally caused a delay, COVID-19 further prevented the new cabinet members to meet and discuss the NPA.

1 Four target provinces are: Vientiane Capital (Vientiane Province), Champasak, Salavan, and Savanaakhet.

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Although Laos CTIP had originally planned to conduct CPN trainings in Soukhuma district, Champasak province and another location during Q3, all CPN trainings were postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions. To move CPN trainings forward, Lao CTIP is coordinating with MLSW to implement them as soon as the lockdown is lifted, hopefully in August or September 2021.

IR 2: Access to economic opportunities and employment among target vulnerable populations improved. Lao CTIP completed the first draft of the private partners mapping report which includes available training opportunities for at-risk and vulnerable youth, employment opportunities for low skilled workers, potential private-sector partnerships for internships, and potential employment for the Lao CTIP target group. Laos CTIP is currently working to translate the draft report into English.

Despite lockdown challenges, two of Laos CTIP’s sub-implementing partners (IPs) Village Focus International (VFI) and Sengsavang (SSV), conducted community-level beneficiary identification. In total, VFI and SSV selected 50 (28 female) at-risk and vulnerable individuals to participate in activities out of 329 (168 female) who participated in the initial beneficiary identification sessions. Based on the individual needs of the 42 beneficiaries (25 female) that VFI identified, VFI provided chicken raising training for two groups and one mushroom culture training for 21 of the 42 beneficiaries identified. The eight individuals Sengsavang identified will join trainings during Q4. Both sub-awardees continued in-house trainings such as sewing, beauty salon, and food processing for shelter residents.

Unfortunately, Laos CTIP sub-IP, Association for Development of Women and Legal Education (ADWLE), had to pause their activities due to the strict lockdown in Vientiane Capital and the Government’s request to renew their MoU.

Unlike the province-based sub-IPs, the lockdown in Vientiane Capital prevented Lao CTIP project staff from traveling to target communities within the province to identify beneficiaries. Instead, Laos CTIP collaborated with Provincial Labor and Social Welfare (PLSW) through online work. PLSW identified project target groups by screening 1,588 returned migrants. After they shared the list with Laos CTIP, the project further screened the list down to 280 potential beneficiaries (136 female). As soon as the situation allows, Lao CTIP will start conducting the individual needs assessment of all 280 people and match their needs with the skills trainings.

During Q3, 12 male migrants who returned from Thailand in 2020 completed and obtained a training certificate for a motorcycle repair training.

IR 3: Access to support and services among trafficked persons increased. During Q3, Laos CTIP prepared to distribute TIP IEC materials (19 locations) and urgent essential items (11 locations) to COVID-19 quarantine centers in Vientiane, Chamsasak, Salavan, and Savannakhet provinces. These provinces experienced a spike in migrants returning from Thailand due to the surge of COVID-19 cases there since March 2021. At the time of reporting, sub-IPs have not yet started distributing IEC materials and essential items at the provincial level but distribution to the provincial level quarantine centers is happening in July. In Vientiane Capital, Laos CTIP staff and MLSW delivered 500 copies of the IEC materials and provided a briefing on TIP and reporting TIP cases to 322 people (145 female), mostly returned migrants, at the KM27 Quarantine Center.

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In collaboration with MICT, Laos CTIP held the ‘Workshop on TIP and Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) Prevention in the Tourism Sector’ in Savannakhet province on 8th April, just before the lockdown was announced on April 21, 2021. The workshop was targeted to government stakeholders and the private tourism sector including hotels, restaurants, and the tourism and transportation associations. Participants learned about TIP and CSE in service sectors and how to prevent and report TIP and sexual exploitation.

Laos CTIP and MICT discussed developing IEC materials and preparing for TIP prevention and media training workshops to be held during Q4. While the coordination was mostly online and over the phone due to the lockdown, Laos CTIP and MICT did have a face-to-face meeting in June to discuss a strategy on effectively sensitizing communities through IEC materials.

Three victims of sexual exploitation were identified and referred during Q3. Two of them were identified during the consultations at Sangthong District, another person was referred by the local government in Savannakhet to Sengsavang.

Other activities implemented under IR 3 included finalizing and submitting the final Vulnerable Economic Opportunities assessment report to USAID in June and translating the Vietnamese Minimum Standard of Care (MSC) Guidelines into Lao language and sharing it with LWU as a reference for their development of Laos’ National MSC. Lastly, Laos CTIP is in the process of discussing a workshop to develop the MSC and is coordinating with LWU for an in-kind contribution to its Counselling and Protection Center.

From May 4-6, 2021, USAID conducted an external virtual DQA of Laos CTIP to learn about the strengths and weaknesses of the project’s, data using five data quality standards, and the extent to which they can be trusted to influence management decisions. In April, Laos CTIP program and M&E staff prepared for the DQA with Home Office (HO) support including conducting a self-diagnose against a DQA checklist to identify gaps, reviewing and confirming data collection methodology, preparing a PowerPoint presentation, and preparing sub-IPs.

I. Project Description The overarching purpose of Laos CTIP is to reduce the vulnerability to human trafficking among target populations in Lao PDR by supporting vocational training and employment opportunities for vulnerable populations (Obj. 2), commencing with survivors of human trafficking to prevent incidences of re-trafficking. These efforts will in turn showcase a “model of prevention and protection” for GOL to learn from, support, and sustain as it builds its response to CTIP through the implementation of related national laws, policies, and programs (Obj. 1), as well as providing high quality support services to trafficked persons (Obj. 3). Laos CTIP’s approach will be purposeful and based on consultations with GOL and CTIP stakeholders and will operate within the context of what GOL and their partners are currently supporting, as well as what they identify as critical needs to support the response to human trafficking.

Objectives I. GOL response to lead anti-human trafficking efforts strengthened through:

a. Improved coordination among GOL agencies

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b. Improved cooperation between GOL and CTIP stakeholders on countering human trafficking

II. Access to economic opportunities and employment among target vulnerable populations improved through:

a. Skills training based on labor market needs, including entrepreneurship development, provided to targeted vulnerable populations

b. Enhanced private sector partnership to offer employment opportunities to targeted vulnerable populations

III. Access to support and services among trafficked persons increased through: a. Improved identification of trafficked persons b. Improved availability and quality of services provided to trafficked persons

II. Summary of Activities and Progress

A. IR1: GOVERNMENT OF LAO PDR RESPONSE TO LEAD ANTI-HUMAN TRAFFICKING EFFORTS STRENGTHENED

Sub IR 1.1: Improved coordination among GOL agencies

Indicator Target for Year 2021

Achievement in Q3 Cumulative in 2021

1.1.1 Number of Child Protection Networks trained in TIP prevention by the project

45 0 Due to COVID lockdown, all the planned CPN trainings had to be

canceled

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1.1.2 Number of provincial-level plans of actions which are jointly developed by TIP subcommittee to combat TIP

2 0 Due to delay in approval of

National Plan of Action (NPA)

0

1.1.3: Percentage of total activities from the provincial-level plans to combat TIP implemented

50% 0 Due to delay in NPA approval, no

sub plans have developed yet

0

1.1.1. Partner with the MLSW and the National Secretariat on CTIP

1.1.1.a. - Support for development of sub-National Plan of Action (NPA): According to the Y4 workplan, Laos CTIP will support the government to develop sub-NPAs in Vientiane Capital and Champasak Provinces in the third quarter, and Salavan and Savannakhet Provinces in the fourth. However, in May, Laos CTIP received an official letter from the ATD informing that the National Steering Committee on TIP had not yet approved the third NPA and advising the project to postpone activities supporting the sub-NPA until the national one is approved. Once the third NPA is approved, the National Security (NS)/ATD will allow development partners to support the development of sub-NPAs and will consider Laos CTIP’s interventions for the target provinces.

1.1.2. Support GOL to enhance collaboration among line ministries

1.1.2.a/1.1.3.a. - Child protection network training: In April, Laos CTIP and MLSW planned to conduct CPN trainings in Champasak and Salavan provinces but had to put them on hold due to the COVID-19 lockdown and interprovincial travel ban. Laos CTIP will resume conducting CPN trainings the lockdown is lifted and interprovincial travel is allowed. Laos CTIP plans to conduct

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one to two CPN trainings with MLSW during Q4 if the COVID situation improves. The remaining trainings will continue in Y5. In April 2021, VFI selected and formed the youth volunteer CTIP groups, Youth Action Against Trafficking (YAAT), in two secondary schools in Champasak Province – Nachan Secondary School (Soukhoumma District) and Koutchick Secondary School (Phonethong District). During Q4, the group members will be trained in TIP prevention and child protection and as peer educators who can identify suspected victims and refer them to relevant government agencies and shelters. Out of the 54 students (41 females) that VFI interviewed to join the groups, they selected 30 (24 females). Ten teachers and local government officials accompanied VFI to monitor the process.

Sub-IR 1.2: Improved cooperation between GOL and CTIP stakeholders on countering human trafficking

Indicator Target for Year 2021

Achievement in Q3 Cumulative in 2021

1.2.1. Number of multi-stakeholder coordination meetings on TIP.

2 0 Due to COVID lockdown,

having meetings were restricted.

0

1.2.2 Stakeholders report evidence of improved collaboration (data; application of ‘Most Significant Change’ method).

Collection not planned in

2021

N/A N/A

1.2.1. Increase stakeholder engagement on labor migration policies and procedures

1.2.1.a. - USAID Laos CTIP’s technical engagement on labor migration policies related to TIP: Laos CTIP is a member of several thematic working groups related to TIP, including one on labor migration. During Q3, Laos CTIP and other organizations, such as the International Labor Organization (ILO), ASEAN-Australia Counter Trafficking (ASEANACT), and other development partners, provided technical comments to the draft Ministerial Agreement 043 – On the Establishment and Management of the Employment Service Enterprise. Development Partners, including Laos CTIP, were particularly concerned about the Agreement’s requirement for Lao migrant workers to pay a fee to recruitment companies and requested that this provision be removed or that the fee be limited. Other comments included requesting MLSW to consider incorporating development partners’ technical inputs.

B. IR2: ACCESS TO ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES AND EMPLOYMENT AMONG TARGET VULNERABLE POPULATIONS IMPROVED

Sub-IR 2.1: Skills training based on labor market needs, including entrepreneurship development, provided to targeted vulnerable populations

Indicator Target for Year 2021

Achievement in Q3 Cumulative in 2021

2.1.1 Number of at-risk populations, TIP survivors who participate in livelihood and/or soft skills training.

150 21 Due to COVID lockdown,

vocational training centers have been closed

since mid-April and meetings were restricted

until late June.

65

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2.1.2 Number of at-risk populations, survivors of trafficking who have gained sustainable livelihoods through foreign assistance (PS.5.1.27)

50 0 Due to the closure of the training schools, classes

were suspended.

0

2.1.3 Percentage of female participants in USG-assisted programs designed to increase access to productive economic resources (assets, credit, income or employment) (CV-GNDR-2)

50% 57% 68%

2.1.1. Understand market needs and build private sector partnerships

2.1.1.a.- Private sector mapping report: During Q3, Lao CTIP completed the first draft of the private sector mapping report which details available training opportunities for at-risk and vulnerable youth; employment opportunities for Laos CTIP beneficiaries; companies interested in partnering for internships; ; potential opportunities in agriculture and small business for Lao CTIP to engage with; and lessons learned from the development partners who have supported vocational trainings. The report was internally shared for technical comment and will soon be translated into English for internal review. It will also be shared with USAID and GOL for comments and feedback. Once all comments have been incorporated, Laos CTIP plans to hold a consultation meeting, either in-person or virtually depending on COVID-19 restrictions.

2.1.1.b. - Private sector partnerships: Laos CTIP continued working with Lao Quality Sole Co., Ltd, a wig manufacturer based in Vientiane Capital. The project sought potential trainees from two target districts in Vientiane Capital aged 16 - 30 to attend a training on wig embroidery. Although beneficiary identification was already conducted in these two districts, the project has not yet identified interested candidates to join this training or others in PakNgeum district. Many young people go to Vientiane Capital or Thailand for work and proximity to these locations is an important factor in their decision to work out of town. They are also hesitant to commit to a training without guaranteed work upon completion. Lao CTIP will therefore continue working with local authorities to share training information with returned migrants in PakNgeum and Sangthong districts and will collaborate with the youth network in Xounnabouly. In the remaining three target districts in Vientiane Province, Laos CTIP plans to hold a village meeting for youth to brief them directly on the pathway from beneficiary assessment to training to internship/job placement and support them to understand the program’s benefits.

2.1.2. Refer survivors and at-risk populations to market-based skills trainings 2.1.2.a. - Sub-IP work:

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Beneficiary Selection - During this quarter, 329 people (168 female) participated in initial beneficiary identification sessions with 50 at-risk/vulnerable people (28 female) selected to participate (42 with VFI and 8 with Sengsavang). While some participants did not meet the selection criteria, others were uninterested in the program and some were caregivers of at-risk individuals who attended out of curiosity.

Between March 262 and June 30, 2021, VFI held initial beneficiary identification sessions in 13 villages in 6 districts in 2 provinces (Vapi, Salavanh, and Lao Ngam Districts in Salavan Province; and Soukkhoumma, Khong, and Phonthong Districts in Champasak Province). Of the 258 people (130 female) who participated, VFI interviewed 58 at-risk people and returned migrants and used the screening criteria to select 42 people (25 female). During the subsequent individual needs assessment that VFI conducted with the 42 individuals, 23 took agriculture/animal raising courses and 19 took other training courses: beauty salon (3 people), food processing and cookery (3 people), sewing (7 people), motorbike repair (4 people), barber (1 person), and electrician (1).

During Q3, Sengsavang conducted beneficiary identification, which had been postponed in Q2, in four villages in Songkhone District, Savanakhet Province. While 71 people (38 female) participated in the identification session, Sengsavang interviewed and selected eight for vocational trainings. Many people who Sengsavang met with were not interested in the training opportunities because they were waiting to return to Thailand once the border reopens because: 1) their jobs are available when COVID-19 improves; 2) their employers want and are working to bring them back; 3) wages are higher in Thailand than in Laos; and 4) they can earn money more immediately in

Thailand. They also stated that if they attend a vocational training in Laos, they cannot provide financial support to their families during the vocational training; it is uncertain whether they could find a job after completing the training; and getting a job is more complicated in Laos compared to Thailand.

Vocational Trainings - VFI provided three training sessions for the 21 newly identified beneficiaries (12 female). Between June 22 and 26, VFI conducted two three-day chicken raising

2 Sessions held from March 26-April 2 in Vapi District; Salavan Province are not included in this report as the information is not yet complete.

Data Collecting activity in Sonnabouly District, Savanaakhet by Sengsavang

Beneficiary identification session in Salavan held by VFI

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trainings for a total of 14 people (eight female) at their Green Earth Center in Lao Ngam District, Salavanh Province. Participants learned about selecting chickens, where to place chicken huts, chicken food and vaccinations, and feeding chickens. All will receive an in-kind start-up kit during Q4 so that they can immediately use the skills and information they learned at the training. The VFI Green Center will provide further technical support to participants as needed and requested.

VFI also conducted one mushroom culture training for seven people (four female) at their Green Earth Center. Trainees learned practical information such as the value, types, and inputs for growing mushrooms, how to produce mushroom spores, and how to grow mushrooms. As part of the training, they also participated in a short session on calculating capital, income, and investment mushroom training. Like the chicken training, all participants will receive an in-kind start-up kit for mushroom culture in Q4 and will be able to access VFI technical support as needed.

During Q3, VFI also continued providing vocational trainings for 26 shelter residents (all female) in sewing (21 people), beauty salon (three people), and food processing and cookery (two people). Five people completed their courses and returned home. Sengsavang also continued to provide vocational trainings for their shelter residents include sewing for eight females and beauty salon for one.

2.1.2.b. - Work by the government and CTIP team:

Lao CTIP beneficiary selection - Due to the COVID-19 lockdown, Laos CTIP remotely collaborated with Vientiane Capital Provincial Labor and Social Welfare (VTE LSW) to identify project beneficiaries. Of the 1,588 returned migrant workers that VTE LSW identified between Jan 1 and June 14, 2021, Laos CTIP identified 280 potential beneficiaries (136 female) who are from the project’s 44 target villages in five target districts. This process is in addition to the one held in PakGeum and Sangthong districts previously discussed. While the majority of migrants returned from Thailand, 42 returned from Malaysia and six from the United States. Of the 280 people identified above, 144 (52 female) are from 10 villages in PakNgeum district; 54 (38 female) from 7 villages in Sangthong; 31 (14 female) from 10 villages in Xaythany district; 45 (25 female) from 7 villages in Hadxayfong; and six (2 females) from three villages in Naxaitihong. 22 were under age 15, 24 were aged 16-20, 116 were aged 21-30, 68 were aged 31-40, and 50 were over age 40. All 22 people under 15 years old will be referred to CPNs or other appropriate institutions.

Laos CTIP has been coordinating with the village and district authorities to continue the selection process based on project criteria, prepare for the individual needs assessment, and ensure that additional returned migrants are included in the list of at-risk and vulnerable people from the target villages. However, interviewing potential beneficiaries has been challenging because of the ongoing lockdown and the hesitancy of village authorities for the Laos CTIP team to visit the village. Laos CTIP obtained some contact numbers using the network

Cookery training held at VFI Shelter

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from the previous session in PakGeum and interviewed 11 people over the phone, identifying nine eligible to participate in activities. Due to authorities’ unwillingness to provide Laos CTIP with the contact information of returned migrants, the project anticipates that phone interviews will be inadequate to identify all potential project beneficiaries.

Individual Need Assessment and Lao CTIP Beneficiary Selection - From April 5-8, 2021, Laos CTIP and MLSW assessed the needs, skills, and economic status of potential beneficiaries in nine villages in Sangthong district, Vientiane Capital to identify suitable support. Village authorities had included 62 people (45 female) as potential beneficiaries who were actually the family members, children, or siblings of vulnerable and at-risk people. Laos CTIP interviewed and selected 47 people (34 female) who met the project’s criteria for assistance.

Four women from this group were identified as current or former victims of sexual exploitation. One survivor who returned from China had already completed rehabilitation at the LWU shelter and returned to her hometown (she is included as a beneficiary below). Another survivor showed interest in taking a livelihood training (she is included as a beneficiary below). Finally, the remaining two women were referred to the LWU shelter and VFI Vientiane shelter for legal and long-term assistance. VFI has unfortunately been unable to accept the survivor due to the risk of COVID-19 transmission within their shelter.

Of the 47 people Laos CTIP identified, 25 people (14 female) aged 15-283 showed interest in vocational trainings and 20 other young parents in livelihood and small business start-up trainings. Laos CTIP did not select 15 people as beneficiaries because they did not fall within the project’s age range of 16-50 years old, including 13 orphans and neglected children aged 4-17 who were instead referred to the village and district CPNs for assistance and schooling, and two people who were over age 60 and were referred to the Social Welfare Department for emergency assistance. Laos CTIP referred an additional 13 vulnerable children of individuals identified for livelihood assistance to the district and village CPNs for close monitoring and schooling assistance. Finally, Laos CTIP could not conduct the individual needs assessment for six people as the village authorities were unwilling to disclose their information or coordinate with the district authority. If politically appropriate, the Project will try to gather information on these individuals from other villagers and will also try to collect the information from the individuals at a workshop in August 2021.

Observations - Laos CTIP prepared a report detailing observations from field visits and individual assessments in Sangthong District. The report was shared with MLSW and Provincial and District Labor and Social Welfare to help identify the most at-risk and vulnerable people. Laos CTIP continues to discuss these issues and encourage MLSW to ease the vulnerability of children not selected as project beneficiaries. Laos CTIP’s key observations include:

• Because village authorities insufficiently informed villagers about the referral process to participate in Laos CTIP’s activities, the Project was unable to reach out many returned migrants and informal workers economically affected by COVID-19. Furthermore, while the one-time announcement at a CPN training was insufficient for participants to reach

3 Potential beneficiaries who are 15 years old were included for the needs assessment because some of them are turning 16 years old soon and they will lose the opportunity for future trainings if they are eliminated. However, their guardians will be consulted for their future direction as necessary.

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out to potential beneficiaries, Laos CTIP recognizes that district and village authorities are kept busy responding to requests from GOL and other development partners. Therefore, Laos CTIP, with MLSW’s support, plans to hire a local coordinator to work directly with district and village authorities. The project is also exploring ways to improve the CPN training to better build the capacity of its members, and to hold a village level meeting to brief potential beneficiaries directly.

• District authorities misidentifying potential beneficiaries remains a challenge. Since Laos CTIP has not yet funded village CPNs to identify potential beneficiaries, the village CPN in Sangthong District reused a list of vulnerable people from a UNICEF project which included orphans and children with disabilities. As a result, many identified individuals fell outside of Laos CTIP’s beneficiary age range. During the individual assessment, Laos CTIP focused on the caregivers of orphans, neglected children, and children with disabilities.

• Village CPNs were often unable to identify potential beneficiaries because very few people fit into the Project’s selection criteria, especially given that many had already returned to Thailand or Vientiane Capital for work. Based on this evidence, Laos CTIP is discussing how to work directly with villages to identify beneficiaries.

• Because many young people travel to Vientiane Capital or Thailand for work, many of the people remaining in Sangthong district villages are parents, the elderly, and children, including students at the primary and lower secondary levels. Further, most interviewed community members described a history of family members migrating to Thailand for work and leaving their children behind with their family members. This trend is expected to continue, especially because of the district’s proximity to Thailand. Thus, Laos CTIP selected Sangthong district to support vulnerable populations to find a job and start business in Laos rather than working abroad.

• Conducting assessments over the phone, as necessitated by the COVID-19 lockdown, made it challenging for Laos CTIP to determine people’s interests and observe their behavior.

• School dropouts and drug use among children in target communities, especially Houylar, Houytom, and Mai Paksang Villages, is an emerging trend. While Laos CTIP recommends that this trend be studied further, such a study is outside of our scope of work.

Sub-IR 2.2: Private sector partnership to offer economic and employment opportunities and safe migration services to targeted populations enhanced

Indicator Target for Year 2021

Achievement in Q3 Cumulative in 2021

2.2.1: Percent of individuals who complete USG-assisted workforce development programs (CV-EG.6-14)

50% 34%

34 %

2.2.2. Number of private sectors partners engaged with CTIP.

5 0 There were some pipelines, but they didn’t lead to concrete partnerships due to the impact of COVID and lack

of beneficiaries’ interest.

0

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During Q3, 12 male migrant workers returned from Thailand completed and obtained a certificate for a motorcycle repair training in Champasak province. Upon completion of the training, all returned to their home villages to start motorbike repair shops. VFI plans to distribute start-up kits to these men in August and September 2021, after they have set up their spaces and demonstrated readiness.

Also during Q3, Sengsavang initiated discussions with Thasano Research and Seed Multiplication Center and Saysombath Technology College regarding trainings for their beneficiaries who are interested in courses on raising livestock, planting, or repairing engines. Since the government only allowed those who were vaccinated against COVID-19 to use the facilities, some beneficiaries had to wait to attend courses until they were vaccinated. Furthermore, the training center and college were closed due to the COVID-19 lockdown.

C. IR3: ACCESS TO SUPPORT AND SERVICES AMONG TRAFFICKED PERSONS INCREASED

Sub-IR 3.1: Identification of trafficked persons improved

Indicator Target for Year 2021

Achievement in Q3

Cumulative in 2021

3.1.1 Number of first responders trained on victim identification (P.S.5.1.28)

70 0 Due to COVID

lockdown, training was not held.

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3.1.2 Number of TIP victims referred for protection services.

60 1 3

3.1.1. Improve victim identification protocols and process

3.1.2. Improve survivor self-identification 3.1.2.a. (1): Since March 2021, anyone entering Laos must quarantine for 14 days due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the surge of cases in Thailand during Q3, many more Lao migrant workers returning home have been put in quarantine centers. Laos CTIP recognized the opportunity to sensitize this captive audience, including many returned migrants, on TIP prevention and protection and to identify potential Project beneficiaries. Therefore, Laos CTIP printed an additional 5,000 copies of IEC materials and distributed them to 19 quarantine centers. The materials included three brochures approved by USAID in 2020, including: (1) ‘How to know that they are victims of human trafficking?’; (2) ‘Think and do research before deciding to work abroad’; and (3) ‘Don’t take the risk to be a victim of human trafficking, be aware!’. Laos CTIP is also in the process of producing 1,500 USAID and Winrock International-branded masks that include the slogan ‘Join Hands to Counter Trafficking in Persons’. The masks will be distributed to beneficiaries, returned migrants, communities, government and other partners, and, if feasible, people in the quarantine centers.

People who completed the motorbike repair training in Champasak

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On June 16, 2021, Laos CTIP Project staff delivered 500 copies of the IEC materials and, in collaboration with MLSW, provided a briefing on how to report TIP cases at the KM27 quarantine center in Vientiane Capital, where 322 people (145 female), including mostly returned migrants were housed. During the visit, Laos CTIP, MLSW, and the center nurse identified one potential TIP victim. While Laos CTIP and MLSW tried to obtain the individual’s contact information, the center was hesitant to disclose the information and the person returned to her hometown the next day. Therefore, Laos CTIP and MLSW are unable to trace her. Laos CTIP will discuss this situation with MLSW and LWU to find out how the Project can support the detection of potential TIP victims and refer them to LWU and other appropriate organizations.

The remaining 18 quarantine centers include 12 in Champasak, one in Salavan, and five in Savanakhet. Due to the need for essential items in the quarantine centers, Laos CTIP decided to provide items4 to 11 centers (five in Champasak, one in Salavan, and five in Savannakhet) identified by MLSW as priorities. As of June 30, 2021, Laos CTIP was in the process of procuring the essential items and coordinating their distribution with VFI and Sengsavang. We are planning for both organizations to distribute IEC materials and essential items in collaboration with MLSW by the end of July 2021.

3.1.2.a. (2): In coordination with the local government, Sengsavang received one TIP victim who needs shelter assistance including transportation, medical assistant, psychological, and others. This TIP victim was identified by a local government in Champhone District.

3.1.2.a. (3): In June, Laos CTIP met the media and a TIP committee focal point of MICT to discuss cooperating to develop three cartoon animation clips and three TIP prevention booklets. Further, Laos CTIP sought MICT’s advice on how to best develop these materials and disseminate TIP awareness-raising information in four target provinces, including through government and development partners using different channels such as social media, radio, training, and events. MICT suggested that Laos CTIP establish an IEC review committee to advance discussions on the design and direction of these materials. Once the products are drafted, MICT will review, revise, and approve. To socialize TIP messages within communities, Laos CTIP and MICT discussed potentially using broadcasting messages over village loudspeakers.

3.1.2.b. - Workshop on TIP and child sexual prevention in tourism sector: On April 8, 2021, Laos CTIP conducted a workshop on TIP Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) prevention in the tourism sector in Kaisone district, Savannakhet Province. The workshop was chaired by Ms.

4 Essential items include not only water, masks, and hand sanitizers but also toiletries, and cleaning items for the quarantine centers.

Laos CTIP staff briefing KM27 quarantine center residents on TIP prevention center in KM27

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Davone Xayasoulian, Provincial Party Committee of Savannakhet Province and Director of Provincial Information Culture and Tourism Department; Ms. Sengsoda Vanthanouvong, Deputy General of Tourism Department, MICT; and Dr. Xoukiet Panyanouvong, Chief of Party, Laos CTIP, Winrock International. The 38 participants (18 female) came from MICT, key government sectors, government staff from the Kaisone Capital, local authorities from target districts, entrepreneurs, and senior tourism sector stakeholders from Savannakhet Province, including travel companies, hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, karaoke clubs, spas, and services providers. At the workshop participants learned:

• How to identify signs of TIP for sexual exploitation and CSE. • How to prevent TIP and CSE in their establishments, including by reflecting on and

implementing prevention protocols and procedures in their services and policies. • The referral system and how to report suspected cases to the designated authorities. • How to provide immediate assistance to victims, especially catering to the needs of

female and child victims.

This workshop was the first opportunity that most participants had to share, network, and learn about CTIP in the tourism sector and many expressed appreciations for the opportunity to learn and meet other stakeholders from the province and central government.

Useful information uncovered during the workshop includes:

• During the first wave of COVID-19 in 2020, many migrants returned from Thailand to Savannakhet Province. According to police statistics, 38,000 migrants returned from Thailand between March 2020 and July 2020.

• Young girls working in the entertainment sector are extremely vulnerable to TIP and in the past two to three years, their numbers have increased.

• Forced marriages to Chinese citizens in exchange for money through an agent has been ongoing since 2016. Even if an agent is arrested, challenging exist in prosecuting the case.

• Commercial sexual exploitation of children in the entertainment sector is occurring in Savannakhet.

Participants confirmed that Laos CTIP should continue collaborating with the tourism department to respond to the above issues. In particular, participants said that IEC materials on TIP prevention, such as posters, to raise awareness among hospitality businesses and build their capacity is crucial. Further, close collaboration between the tourism sector and relevant government partners in CTIP is also seen as important.

Workshop on TIP and Child Sexual Prevention in Tourism Sector in Kaisone district, Savannakhet Province

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3.1.2.c.- International Workers’ Day: Laos CTIP and the Lao Federation Trade Union (LFTU) jointly planned a CTIP awareness raising campaign for workers at a garment factory in Vientiane to be held in honor of International Workers’ Day on May 1, 2021. Unfortunately, the campaign was canceled due to the COVID-19 lockdown that started on April 21, 2021.

Sub-IR 3.2: Availability and quality of services provided to trafficked persons improved

Indicator Target for Year

2021

Achievement in Q3 Cumulative in 2021

3.2.1 Number of service providers that receive training, technical assistance, or capacity building in victim-centered and trauma-informed services

20 0 COVID lockdown and delay in mapping of service

provider prevented from implementation.

0

3.2.2 % of identified victims who receive support services based on needs assessment

60% 100% The percentage shows 100%, because one TIP victim

was identified and she received support services.

100%

3.2.3 Number of individuals reached by social service programs aimed at meeting the needs of marginalized and vulnerable populations supported with USG assistance (CV-P4-14)

50 23 69

3.2.1 Map and expand service provider network and referral systems 3.2.1.b. – Support providing services to TIP victims: During Q3, Laos CTIP prepared to provide in-kind support to LWU in the form of necessities such as soap, sanitary napkins, masks, etc. At the time of reporting, the in-kind list was approved, and procurement is underway. Laos CTIP is planning to hold a handover ceremony in July 2021.

Of the 26 people supported by VFI in the VFI Home of Dream Shelter with daily meals and personal items, five are fully funded by Laos CTIP, and 21 are co-funded by multiples donors. VFI also provided basic health check-up, treatment, and counseling support to 17 beneficiaries during their vocational training support. Five are female shelter residents and 12 are male beneficiaries who took the motorbike repair training.

3.2.2 Improve service quality 3.2.2.a. – Support for development of Minimum Standard of Care: In May, at a consultation meeting for stakeholders in the development of the MSC guidelines, LWU recommend that the Vietnamese version be translated into Lao so that it could be used as a best practice from a neighboring country and adapted to the Lao context. Therefore, Laos CTIP translated the Vietnamese Minimum Standard of Care (MSC) Guidelines into Lao language. In July, Laos CTIP will share the Lao version with LWU. The Project is also discussing with LWU how a second consultation meeting can be held during the COVID-19 lockdown. After the consultation meeting, Laos CTIP plans to support the process to draft the Lao guidelines.

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III. Coordination Efforts I. Meeting with MLSW In June, Laos CTIP and MLSW discussed an amendment to the MOU and implementation of project activities during and after the lockdown. MLSW advised Laos CTIP to conduct an internal mid-term evaluation and hold a six-month review meeting based on the evaluation report to move the amendment forward. This internal mid-term assessment will focus on three areas: 1) project activities; 2) budget expenditure against the MOU; and 3) coordination with GOL. The assessment team will comprise GOL officials from MLSW, MOFA, and possibly ATD, along with Laos CTIP. MLSW has requested that Laos CTIP to re-submit: 1) the amendment cover letter; 2) a letter of intent from USAID to provide additional funding to Laos CTIP; 3) a budget of activities for the additional funding of USD 800,000; and 4) the current MOU and MOU amendment. Once MLSW receives all these documents, they will share the MOU amendment with their International Department and with MOFA and will inform Laungnumthan and Oudomxay Provinces about Laos CTIP’s intention to implement the project there.

MLSW and Laos CTIP also discussed the possibility of direct project implementation at the provincial level to accelerate outstanding activities. For example, allowing direct engagement between provincial governments and Laos CTIP for the beneficiary assessment under the supervisor of the central government. To decentralize project implementation, the central level needs to issue a letter to the provincial level allowing them to directly work with Laos CTIP.

Further, MLSW expressed their concerns about the slow implementation of the project due to COVID-19 and suggested that key government counterparts directly implement the activities under their approved MOU annual work plan to advance implementation where possible. Alternatively, they suggested that the Laos CTIP conduct any of the activities online to accelerate the project implementation in case the project cannot hold meetings or go to the community.

II. Meeting with Anti-Trafficking in Persons In June, Laos CTIP paid a courtesy visit to the new Director General (DG) of ATD. The team provided the DG and his team with an overview of the project including information on its objectives and target provinces and sought possible cooperation with ATD. The new DG is supportive of the project, particularly IR2 activities that support vulnerable groups in getting a job and participating in vocational training and business start-up. Laos CTIP offered ATD its support on TIP where needed, for example, a consultation meeting between GOL and development partners on TIP implementation.

III. Meeting with Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism In June, Laos CTIP met with Deputy of the Media Department and TIP focal point officer at MICT to discuss the TIP prevention IEC materials (cartoon animation and booklet); how to accelerate production of IEC materials for GOL’s approval; and how to widely use IEC materials with the target groups and to attract other partners to use similar materials in their TIP prevention activities. MICT suggested establishing a review committee for this purpose. The meeting also referred to the TIP prevention and media workshop with media, culture and promotion marketing departments within the MICT. The first workshop is likely to be held in VTE capital and expanded to other provinces.

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IV. Meeting with USAID Since the lockdown started on April 21, 2021, Laos CTIP has held several online meetings with USAID including regular monthly check-ins and consultations before and after the data quality assessment (DQA). Pre- and post-DQA meetings were held to prepare for and follow-up on some pending matters and clarify issues specifically related to indicator P.S.5 1-25, which was ultimately resolved.

In May, Laos CTIP participated in an online USAID Laos IP meeting, which was chaired by Mr. Michael Ronning, USAID Country Representative to Laos. USAID updated the participants on new developments in USAID including new leadership, its COVID response, and opened the floor to partners to express their views or questions.

V. Monthly collaboration with Asia CTIP and other Winrock CTIP projects Laos CTIP actively participated in the monthly COPs meeting hosted by Asia CTIP where COPs from all Winrock CTIP projects share information, best practices, challenges, innovative activities, and IEC materials. In addition, Asia CTIP facilitated meetings among the USAID Thailand CTIP, Cambodia CTIP, and Laos CTIP projects to exchange information. Thailand CTIP is in the process of developing comprehensive guidelines for migrant workers on how to obtain legal documents to work in Thailand, and Laos CTIP provided useful information to support them. Asia CTIP also hosted a technical exchange for interested entities, organizations, and freelancers to exchange information and knowledge with researcher on TIP issues.

VI. Meetings and coordination with other key stakeholders Due to the lockdown, Laos CTIP was only able to hold a few meetings with partners. One was a virtual meeting with IOM. IOM sought to cooperate with CTIP partners and discussed with Laos CTIP how the two organizations can collaborate and avoid duplicating their many similar activities such as developing sub-NPAs at the provincial and district levels; translating and disseminating the NPA; supporting village leaders on victim identification (VID); developing IEC materials with MICT; supporting CPN trainings; and providing small grants to CSO and NGOs. IOM also plans to work with the private sector to conduct supply chain mapping linkages between Lao and Thailand, link them with recruitment agencies, and provide job matching within destination countries; work with LWU and prosecutors’ offices on access to justice, penal code, court trainings, TIP crime SOP; and with the police on VID training. Based on the discussions, Laos CTIP and IOM could consider jointly developing sub-NPA at provincial and districts levels, conducting VID trainings, developing IEC development, and supporting LWU’s victim reintegration.

In late June, the Australian Federal Police and A21 organized a virtual regional meeting, “Coping with the COVID Pandemic and the Increase of Online Exploitation”. The meeting focused on cross border trafficking and prevention and served as a forum for organizations to share their experiences, successes, and challenges implementing activities during COVID-19, as well as the impact of COVID-19 on the vulnerable communities that they work with. It was a follow-up from last years’ efforts to enable regular regional meetings to increase cooperation within the CTIP community and between law enforcement and CSOs. Meeting presenters shared experiences from the Department of Special Investigation, FBI (based on Bangkok), Australia Centre to Counter Child Exploitation, and Online Child Safety. Lao participants included ATD,

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MOFA, LWU, National Committee on Advancement of Women (NCAW), LFTU, and development partners including Winrock International, ASEANACT, VFI, Child Funds, UNICEF, The Asia Foundation, and ILO. Representatives from Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam also participated.

IV. Program Management I. Covid-19 response Due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in Thailand since March 2021, an increasing number of Lao migrant workers started returning to Lao PDR and staying in quarantine centers for 14 days. Since the pandemic started in 2020, GOL has mandated that all people entering the country must stay in designated quarantine locations for two weeks. Before April 2021, migrant workers who had previously left illegally tended to return illegally, so many were not quarantined. However, in April 2021, GOL started emphasizing its policy not to punish those who had left illegally if they return through immigration and quarantine themselves to prevent COVID community spread. According to IOM, the number of returned migrants from Thailand was 284,180 persons as of May 2021.5 While consistent and standardized data for returned migrants since March 2021 is unavailable, Winrock’s sub-IPs informed that 865 people (female 405) were accommodated in six provincial quarantine centers and 327 people (female 139) in seven district quarantine centers in Champasak Province at the beginning of June. Further, a total of 49,815 people (female 23,882)6 were quarantined in five quarantine centers in Savanaakhet Province from March 20-June 9, 2021. While the number of returned migrant workers has been increasing, business continues to decline in Lao PDR due to closed borders and the ongoing lockdown since April 21, 2021. This leads to the conclusion that many returned migrant workers will face challenges obtaining jobs and will likely remain unemployed, increasing their and their families’ vulnerabilities.

Due to the lockdown in Lao PDR as well as the inter-provincial travel ban since mid-April, Laos CTIP and sub-IPs faced could not visit communities to identify potential beneficiaries. Without identifying the returned migrants and vulnerable individuals, it was extremely difficult to find beneficiaries to enroll in vocational trainings and job placements. In the April beneficiary identification survey in Sangthong, Laos CTIP staff found that many potential beneficiaries (returned migrants) had returned to Thailand. However, it is likely that those who had left again returned to Laos due to the subsequent COVID increase in Thailand. To reach migrant workers who are in the process of returning to Laos or are currently quarantined, Laos CTIP proposed to distribute IEC materials to raise awareness on TIP and help identify potential beneficiaries. Please refer to Section 3.1.2.a for further detail.

During the beneficiary identification process held in April, Laos CTIP found that potential beneficiaries were more interested in shorter trainings than long-term ones because they would like to return to Thailand as soon as the border reopens or the COVID situation improves. Laos CTIP is currently preparing to offer more practical and shorter training courses, rather than

5 IOM, COVID-19 Situation Report, May 2021. The source of information is the official statistics of the Immigration Bureau of Thailand, but it does not mention the time period. 6 Figures were obtained from the District Department of Labor and Social Welfare in the respective province through VFI and Sengsavang.

21

the originally envisioned multi-month trainings, so that returned migrant workers can attend and so participants can utilize their skills immediately to improve their economic situations. Please refer to Section 2.1.2 for further detail.

V. Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) I. DQA mission The DQA was held from May 4-6, 2021 to ensure that USAID is "aware of the strengths and weaknesses of the data, as determined by applying the five data quality standards (validity, reliability, precision, integrity, and timeliness) and the extent to which the data can be trusted to influence management decisions". However, due to the lockdown, the DQA occurred virtually. The DQA team held interviews with the Laos CTIP team and with sub-IPs VFI and Sengsavang. The final DQA report was shared by the DQA Mission on June 10, 2021.

The DQA recommended a number of improvements to Laos CTIP’s data quality including to its MEL system, procedures, tools, and indicators. Laos CTIP developed a DQA after action plan to address all the DQA findings and recommendations. The project team has been revising the monitoring, evaluation, and learning plan (MELP) including updating performance indicator reference sheets (PIRS); better aligning sub-awardees activities and indicators with Laos CTIP’s; revising various formats; and strengthening the data security measures. Furthermore, Laos CTIP conducted an internal staff training on how to use the Survey123 data collection tool. Once the MELP is completed, anticipated in Q4, other recommendations which rely on a finalized MELP, such as standard operating procedures (SOPs) will also be completed.

II. Survey123 USAID Laos CTIP has developed four data collection forms which have been programmed into Survey123: (1) village referral form; (2) individual screening form; (3) individual determination form; and (4) livelihood assessment form. The forms are currently being revised based on field experience and recommendations from the DQA report. Once the forms are completed, the revised versions will be uploaded into Survey123. Further, Laos CTIP plans to hold a Survey123 training session for Laos CTIP and sub-IP staff in July so that they can start collecting data on tablets.

During Q3, Laos CTIP procured four of 11 tablets for data collection. Sub-IPs will receive seven tablets, and four will remain with Laos CTIP for staff to use. Data collection is expected to start as soon as the Survey123 training is held and the COVID-19 pandemic situation eases. To date, Laos CTIP and sub-IPs have collected data manually and it was then entered into excel.

III. Revision of reported figure for indicators since submission of the Q2 report The reported figure for indicator 3.2.3 Number of individuals reached by social service programs aimed at meeting the needs of marginalized and vulnerable populations supported with USG assistance (CV-P4-14) has been revised since submission on April 30, 2021 of the second quarterly report. In the FY21Q2 report, 12 people were reported under indicator 3.2.3 as the quarterly achievement. However, the figure was revised as 46 people in the USAID Emergency Support Fund (ESF) report in May, based on the communications between USAID Laos and CTIP Project Office.

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Further, it should be noted that Indicator P.S.5.1-25 Number of victims of human trafficking receiving services which was originally included in the FY21Q1 report has been removed from the revised version of the MEL Plan (submitted on March 31) and accordingly not reported in the Q2 report.

23

USAID Laos CTIP Indicator Performance Tracking Table

Indicator Number & Name

Data Source

Frequency of

Reporting to USAID

Baseline FY2020 FY2021 LOP

Progress Narrative

Year

Valu

e

Targ

et

Resu

lt

% p

rogr

ess

Targ

et

Q1

Resu

lt

Q2

Resu

lt

Q3

Resu

lt

Cum

ulat

ive

Q1,

Q2

& Q

3

% p

rogr

ess

in 2

021

Targ

et

Tota

l to

date

% p

rogr

ess

IR1. Government of Lao PDR response to lead anti-human trafficking efforts strengthened

Sub-IR 1.1: Improved coordination among Government of Lao PDR agencies

Output Indicator 1.1.1: Number of Child Protection Networks trained in TIP prevention by the project

USAID Laos

CTIP’s report

Quarterly 2020 0 15 4 26% 45 21 16 0 37 82% 123 41 33% CPN training planned for Q3 had to be cancelled due to lockdown.

Output Indicator 1.1.2: Number of provincial-level plans of actions which are jointly developed by TIP subcommittee to combat TIP

Provincial ATC

Annually 2020 0 0 0 N/A 2 0 0 0 0 0% 6 0 0%

While the target for 2021 is 2, it has not met in Q3. The NPA has not been approved yet and hence the sub-plan of action has not been developed.

Outcome Indicator 1.1.3: Percentage of total activities from the provincial-level plans to combat TIP implemented

Provincial

Secretariat of Anti-

Human Trafficki

ng

Annually 2020 0 0% 0 N/A 50% 0 0 0 0 0% 90% 0 0%

As mentioned above, sub plan of action has not been developed and approved. Hence implementation of activities within this year will be very unlikely.

Sub-IR 1.2: Improved cooperation between GOL and other stakeholders on CTIP

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Output Indicator 1.2.1: Number of multi-stakeholder coordination meetings on TIP.

IP Reports

Annually 2020 0 0 0 N/A 2 0 0 0 0 0% 8 0 0% Due to lockdown, having meetings with many stakeholders was not feasible.

Outcome Indicator 1.2.2 Stakeholders report evidence of improved collaboration (data; application of ‘Most Significant Change’ method)

Application of MSC

method

LOP 2020 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Evidence of improve collaboration is shared by stakeholders

N/A N/A Most Significant Change will be shared in 2022.

IR 2: Access to economic opportunities and employment among vulnerable populations improved

Sub-IR 2.1: Skills to expand economic and employment opportunities including safe migration opportunities provided to targeted population

Output Indicator 2.1.1: Number of at-risk populations, TIP survivors who participate in livelihood and/or soft skills training.

IP reports, training databas

e

Quarterly 2020 0 0 0 N/A 150 0 44 21 65 43% 600 65 11%

Q3: 21 beneficiaries (12 female) attended training course for Chicken raising (14 ppl) and Mushroom culture (7 ppl). Q1-Q2: 44 ppl

Outcome Indicator 2.1.2: Number of at-risk populations, survivors of trafficking who have gained sustainable livelihoods through

Individual

beneficiaries

interview.

Annually 2020 0 0 0 N/A 50 0 0 0 0 0% 300 0 0%

Rolling baseline has been conducted with 12 beneficiaries who took a three-months training on motorbike repair and completed in June. Six months after completion of the course (Jan 2022), the same

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foreign assistance projects (PS.5.1-27)

assessment will be conducted by the end of the project.

Output indicator 2.1.3: Percentage of female participants in USG-assisted programs designed to increase access to productive economic resources (assets, credit, income or employment) (CV-GNDR-2)

USAID Laos CTIP, VFI & SSV,

ADWLE reports

Quarterly 2020 0 0 0 0% 50% N/A 73% 57% 68% 57% 60% 68% 68%

Q3: 21 training participants (12 female). Calculation 12/21*100=57% Cumulative for 2021: 32 (Q2) +12+32

(Q3) =44, 44/65*100=68%

Numerator 32 12 44

Denominator 44 21 65

Sub-IR 2.2: Private sector partnership to offer economic and employment opportunities and safe migration services to targeted populations enhanced

Output Indicator 2.2.1: Percent of individuals who complete USG-assisted workforce development programs (CV-EG.6-14)

Laos CTIP & Sub-

awardees

reports

Annually 2020 0% 0% 0% N/A 50% N/A 0 34% 34% 34% 70% 34%

Q3: 15 ppl completed training course; 12: motorbike repair (VFI); 1: cooking (SSV); 2: sewing (VFI); 15/44*100=34%

Numerator (individuals who

completed) 0 15 15

Denominator (individuals who

participated) 0 44 44 44 people were trained in Q2

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Output indicator 2.2.2: Number of private sectors partners engaged with CTIP

Lao CTIP

report Quarterly 2020 0 0 0 0% 5 N/A 0 0 0 0% 20 0 0%

Discussions on partnerships with (i) Thasano Research and Seed Multiplication Center; and (ii) Saysombath Technology College (SSV); (iii) Lao Quality Sole Co. Ltd. (CTIP) were held but actual dispatchment of trainees has not started yet.

IR 3: Access to support and services among trafficked persons increased

Sub-IR 3.1: Identification of trafficked persons improved

Output Indicator 3.1.1: Number of first responders trained on victim identification. (P.S.5.1.28 USAID)

IP reports.

(WI) Quarterly 2020 0 50 0 0% 70 36 0 0 36 51% 300 36 12%

COVID-19 and lockdown delayed the process of VID and its training has also been delayed during Q3.

Output Indicator 3.1.2: Number of TIP victims referred for protection services. (P.S. 5.1.29)

IP report.

Quarterly 2020 0 10 0 0% 60 0 2 1 3 5% 130 3 2%

In Q3 there is 1 TIP victims referred to SSV. In Q1 two (2) women were sent from Luang Namtha to LWU shelter. Note: one victim referred to VFI VTE has not been accommodated yet because PCR test prior to acceptance at the VFI shelter cannot be conducted. Calculation: 3/60*100= 5%, and 3/130*100=2%

Sub-IR 3.2: Availability and quality of services provided to trafficked in persons

Output Indicator 3.2.1: Number of service providers that receive training, technical assistance, or capacity building in victim-centered and trauma-informed services (P.S.5.1.24)

USAID Laos CTIP’s reports & other implementing Partner reports

Quarterly 2020 0 5 0 0% 20 0 0 0 0 0% 70 0 0%

Not yet achieved. The USAID Laos CTIP conducted service provider assessment and its report is yet to be finalized.

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Outcome Indicator 3.2.2: % of identified victims who receive support services based on needs assessment

VFI & SSV reports

Quarterly 2020 0 50% 0 0.00

% 60% N/A 0

100%

100%

100% 70% 100%

100%

Total number of identified victims are 3 but only 1 victim of human trafficking received support from SSV shelter, other 2 persons are not TIP victims but 1 referred to LWU shelter. Note: one victim referred to VFI VTE has not been accommodated yet because PCR test prior to acceptance at the VFI shelter cannot be conducted. Calculation: For Q3 Total identifiedQ3 = 1 TIP victim receives support service=1 1/1*100=100% Cumulative: Total identified LOP= 1 Total received support services=1 1/1*100=100%

Numerator 1 1 1

Denominator 1 1 1

1 TIP victim was referred to SSV. Two other women identified are victims of sexual exploitation. Hence not counted here.

Output indicator 3.2.3: Number of individuals reached by social service programs aimed at meeting the needs of marginalized and vulnerable populations supported with USG assistance (CV-P4-14)

USAID Laos CTIP, VFI & SSV, ADWLE reports

Quarterly 2020 0 30 8 26% 50 N/A 46 23 69 138% 300 77 26%

Total number received social services in Q3: 23 people (14 women) comprised as follows: 21 people- received training 1 new person-SSV accommodated in the shelter 1 person identified at the beneficiary identification- referred to LWU shelter Cumulative for Q1 &Q2 of 2021: 46 people Q1: 2 TIP victims (Ind.3.1.2) Q2: 44 people- received training under (Ind. 2.1.1) including 12 people who were also reported under 3.2.3

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Cumulative Q1-Q3: 46 (Q1+Q2) + 23 (Q3)= 69 people In Q2 report (submitted on April 30, 2021), the number of beneficiaries was reported as 12. However, as per the email communication between USAID and CTIP dated May 24, 2021 regarding the ESF reporting, the number of beneficiaries was revised as 46. 46 people are comprised of 2 people reported as TIP Victims in Q1 (under Ind 3.1.2) and 44 people trained reported in Q2 (under Ind 2.1.1). Calculation: 69/50*100= 138% And total cumulative to date is 69 (for 2021)+8 (for 2020)=77 and calculation is 77/300*100=26%

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VI. Status and Analysis of Budget Expenditure

USAID Laos CTIP Total Budget

Previous Expenditures

Expenditures this Quarter

Total Cumulative

Balance

Personnel and Fringe

$2,529,163 $95,627.49 $118,100.93 $877,588.19 $1,651,574.81

Allowances, Travel and Per Diem

$342,180 $17,798.55 $9,381.13 $112,407.58 $229,772.28

Equipment and Supplies

$49,208 $3,185.40 $1,934.89 $39,418.18 $9,789.82

Contractual $2,204,054 $26,161.93 $62,242.48 $100,592.76 $2,103,461.04

Other $1,010,826 $38,683.39 $28,508.33 $341,008.26 $669,817.88

Indirect Costs $2,194,569 $76,250.90 $89,530.75 $696,859.26 $1,497,709.74

TOTAL $8,330,000 $257,707.66 $309,698.51 $2,167,874.23 $6,162,125.57

VII. Lessons Learned, and Challenges and Problems Encountered

• While the lockdown imposed on April 21, 2021 delayed several planned activities including key meetings, workshops, trainings, and beneficiary identification at the community level, Laos CTIP focused on what the project could undertake during it. For example, the team prepared for: the DQA and worked on after action items, a COVID response at quarantine centers including the distribution of IEC, providing in-kind support to LWU, upcoming trainings, creating new IEC materials, and amending the MOU with MLSW. Further, to advance beneficiary identification and selection, Laos CTIP collaborated with MLSW to secure a list of returned migrants to contact by phone.

• Laos CTIP’s inability to access communities to identify beneficiaries and conduct the needs assessment significantly delayed activities. Although the Project tried to contact identified individuals over the phone, this method has made it challenging for them to understand the program and for Laos CTIP to capture their training and income generation needs.

• Due to lockdown, field visits to monitor Sengsavang and VFI’s work have been postponed. Although Laos CTIP staff are in contact with sub-awardees via email and phone, our ability to monitor their activities is limited.

• Due to the pandemic, sub-IPs cannot easily accept new at-risk people into their shelters without conducting a COVID-19 test because if the shelter accepts someone without having taken a test, they run the risk of an outbreak. Unfortunately, it is quite challenging to take a PCR test if a person does not show COVID-19 symptoms or has not recently returning from abroad. This issue needs to be further discussed to find a way forward.

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• Participating in a virtual DQA was challenging, especially for sub-IPs because of their limited English proficiency. Further, the limited time for Laos CTIP and sub-IPs to review and respond to the DQA draft report was challenging for the same reason.

• An unexpected government requirement for ADWLE to renew their MOU with the district government affected their start-up. Because most of ADWLE projects in the approved districts have been completed, GOL requested that ADWLE obtain a new MOU for this implementation. This unexpected process will delay implementation of activities and increase ADWLE’s costs for MOU administration and operations. Nevertheless, ADWLE is expecting the MOU to be approved in August 2021, after which they can catch-up with the delayed project implementation.

VIII. Y4 Q4 Upcoming Plan and Activities At the time of reporting, Laos was still under a mandatory COVID-19 lockdown which started on April 21, 2021. The situation in Laos is fluid given that cases are increasing in Laos CTIP’s target provinces (mainly imported cases), while the number of cases in Vientiane are currently very low. Nonetheless, Laos CTIP is planning to implement activities with the key government partners as soon as the lockdown is lifted. However, if the lockdown is extended, Laos CTIP will need to find a nuanced approach to continue implementation where possible. In this regard, Laos CTIP will discuss a contingency plan with MLSW at the beginning of Q4. For instance, if COVID-19 cases continue to rise in the provinces, one solution could be to implement activities mainly in Vientiane and in shelters. Additionally, Laos CTIP may need to negotiate with MLSW to conduct the mid-term evaluation field trip only in Vientiane and online in the remaining provinces. Advance discussions on how to hold some of the important meetings online with key government ministries may also be necessary.

Assuming that the lockdown is eased, Laos CTIP is planning to carry out the following activities during Q4:

IR 1

• Continue CPN training in Champasak and Salavan once the lockdown is lifted. • Organize the second TIP, migration, and labor meeting with development partners. • Propose a joint meeting on TIP with GOL. • Partner with GOL to conduct TIP-related events linked with IR 3. • Conduct a cross-border meeting with the Thai government, starting in Champasak

province if possible. • Discuss a hotline and TIP-related database with LFTU.

IR 2

• Continue conducting beneficiary assessments in Champasak and Salavan provinces and districts where the CPN training was held.

• Recruit a field coordinator in each target province to advance the beneficiary identification and needs assessment at the community level.

• Hold village-level meetings to disseminate information about vocational training opportunities under Laos CTIP and attract more potential beneficiaries.

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• Partner with vocational training centers to announce training opportunities. • Advance vocational, life skills, and business start-up trainings for identified beneficiaries. • Engage with the private sector to find businesses to send trainees for internships, jobs,

and apprenticeships. • Hold a consolidation workshop with GOL on the private sector mapping report.

IR 3 • Provide in-kind support to TIP victims and vulnerable people residing in LWU’s shelter. • Support ATD to display banners on the street and livestream a session through Lao

Youth Radio Facebook on TIP Day. • Distribute IEC materials and essential items to returned migrants in quarantine centers,

sensitize them to TIP awareness, and accelerate identification of beneficiaries in coordination with MLSW and sub-awardees.

• Continue developing IEC materials on TIP and safe migration and distribute these materials and branded masks to beneficiaries, GOL, private sector partners, and communities to raise awareness on TIP prevention and protection.

• Conduct training on TIPs, safe migration, and the role of the media to counter TIP in collaboration with MICT.

• Finalize service provider assessment report, including consolidation workshop with GOL. • Conduct planning session with LWU on the MSC. • Continue organizing the VID training with LWU in Champasak and in Savannakhet.

Overall: • Carry out a mid-term evaluation with MLSW in August, a six-month review, and re-

submit the revised MOU amendment to MLSW. • Discuss a contingency plan for a stricter lockdown, especially in the provincial level,

with MLSW. • Discuss the possibility of and approach online meetings with key GOL stakeholders. • Coordinate with GOL to start directly implementing activities with provincial authorities

based on the MOU. • Support ADWLE and ensure they can receive their MOU by August 2021. • Provide technical support and conduct field visits with VFI and Sengsavang to accelerate

their implementation and expenditure. • Conduct a desk review of ADWLE in August or September 2021. • Finalize sub-IP modifications for VFI and Sengsavang. • Conduct TIP and safe migration workshops with MOE in the target provinces and

districts. • Train sub-awardees on mobile data collection and ensure they start collecting data. • Continue following-up on DQA recommendations such as finalizing the MELP and

developing SOPs. • Prepare the Annual Report for Y4. • Develop the Y5 annual work plan.