Engaging Stakeholders in the Process and Outcomes of Research on Child Sex Trafficking
There is substantial research on human trafficking in general, and especially on sex trafficking of children, also known as commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC). However, while there is some literature on ways coalition-building, task force creation, and other collaborative initiatives are utilized in the implementation of human trafficking policies and programs, there is almost no literature on stakeholder engagement in the process and outcomes of research done on trafficking in persons. This presentation will describe the engagement of over 100 stakeholders (i.e., international, governmental, non-governmental, community-based, etc.) in the development of a three-country study on CSEC in the West African region. The presentation will discuss four major stages of involvement of stakeholders in the research and crucial roles some of them had in the overall outcomes of the international study. Implications and recommendations for research and practice with hard-to-reach populations are discussed.
Outline/Structure of the Case Study
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE
Why stakeholder engagement in the research process matters
Current level of research on stakeholder engagement in research
METHODS
Study Settings
Stakeholder Demographics
Data collection and analysis
FINDINGS
Stakeholders' input in the research design
Stakeholders' input in the data collection
Securing stakeholders' feedback and approval on on study results
Stakeholders' role in the study dissemination
DISCUSSION
IMPLICATIONS
Learning Outcome
Knowledge about ways to get stakeholders (international, governmental, non-governmental, community-based, faith-based, etc) including policymakers, service providers, educators, and religious and traditional leaders, to actively participate in the development of research from the stage of research design to that of research dissemination.
Target Audience
Professionals and researchers working with hard-to-reach populations in general, and especially human trafficking cases.
Prerequisites for Attendees
NONE
