In May, Oceania Freedom Network Director Sarah Scott-Webb had the opportunity to speak to more than 100 government officials and anti-trafficking leaders at the New Zealand Government Trafficking in Persons Forum. She brought a strong message on the need for better collaboration and was encouraged this theme was repeated throughout the day.

“It was a great privilege to be able to speak into what is happening in New Zealand’s anti-trafficking sector,” Sarah said, “particularly to be able to highlight how important and necessary collaboration is for us to be able to get ahead in this space.”

Government data presented at the Forum estimated that in New Zealand 80% of trafficking cases are for the purpose of forced labour. It also highlighted the lack of data and resources available within the sector, making a cohesive response challenging.

Following the forum Sarah facilitated a second day for non-profit and community anti-trafficking workers, bringing together leaders from a diverse range of organisations to continue discussions around collaboration and how best to share information and resources among each other.