Social Enterprise
AFESIP Social Enterprise (ASE) is a training and income generating activity that supports victims of trafficking and sexual exploitation to return to a normal life through a sustainable reintegration process (financial independence).
Due to the psychological condition of women rescued and the low self-esteem which often results, it is important not only to provide psychological support, but to provide skills through vocational training programs so women can learn to be self-sufficient and regain stability in their lives.
Background
The key contributor to the situation of poverty and vulnerability that affects women in Laos is the lack of access to production resources. Work conditions in garment factories, the most common source of employment for Lao women, are so poor that workers are increasingly attracted by the 'easy money' promoted by prostitution. According to the AFESIP Laos 2007 Outreach Database, over 30 per cent of the young women in prostitution previously worked in the garment industry.
Therefore, economical empowerment of women is fundamental to promote their participation in the decision-making process and to increase their access and control of the production system.
Objectives
ASE's ultimate objective is to support the empowerment of female victims of trafficking for sexual slavery and exploitation.
ASE works with one of the most vulnerable and marginalised groups of Laos society; women who have been victims of sexual exploitation, many of whom have no family or community support to help with their reintegration process.
By giving women job opportunities in Fair Trade conditions and frameworks, ASE can support victims' economic, social and psychological empowerment and independence for sustainable reintegration into society.
Activities
Two social enterprises are established and in operation today:
- A hair dressing/beauty salon in Vientiane Capital
- Sale and production of handmade flowers from natural, raw materials
ASE is also investigating the establishment of a handicraft centre for the production of organic cosmetics.