Application Guidelines for the Human Trafficking Research Initiative in Cape Verde
The Human Trafficking Research Initiative in Cape Verde represents a crucial opportunity to strengthen understanding of the phenomenon, identify its root causes, and develop more effective prevention and combat strategies on the islands. This Request for Proposals aims to fund innovative and impactful projects that contribute to the eradication of human trafficking, a serious human rights violation that disproportionately affects the most vulnerable communities. This is Round 4 of Initial FinancingThis is a decisive moment to consolidate the success of previous editions and to give further impetus to research and action in the field.
The main aim of this initiative is to generate robust, evidence-based knowledge about human trafficking in Cape Verde. The aim is to fund projects that address the complex dimensions of this crime, from its prevalence and typology, through the routes used, to the characteristics of the victims and perpetrators. Proposals should demonstrate a clear focus on research and data analysis, with the potential to inform public policies and practices implemented by civil society organisations and the Cape Verdean government.
Project proposals must fall under one or more of the following priority themes:
- Identification and characterisation: Research into the incidence, prevalence and forms of human trafficking in Cape Verde, including labour trafficking, sex trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Analysing populations at risk and the routes used by traffickers.
- Prevention: Study of the effectiveness of awareness-raising and education campaigns, identifying best practices to prevent recruitment, exploitation and re-victimisation. Research into the underlying causes of human trafficking, including poverty, gender inequality and lack of opportunities.
- Protection and Assistance to Victims: Assessment of the services available to victims of human trafficking, including shelter, psychological support, legal assistance and opportunities for social reintegration. Analysing the barriers victims face in accessing these services.
- Perpetrators and Legal Context: Investigating criminal networks involved in human trafficking, including the identification of traffickers and accomplices. Analysing the application of the law and convictions for human trafficking in Cape Verde.
The application process is competitive and requires proposals to fulfil strict quality criteria. Proposals must be clear, concise, and properly argued, demonstrating a sound research methodology, consistent data analysis, and a strategy for disseminating the results that guarantees their impact on the community. Projects must be designed to be implemented over a maximum period of 18 months, with a well-defined and justified budget.
Applicants must demonstrate their ability to manage the project effectively, meeting the deadlines and objectives set. Partnerships with other civil society organisations, universities and government institutions are encouraged, especially when these partnerships strengthen the project's ability to reach the target populations and promote the sustainability of its results.
The success of this Round 4 of Initial Financing will depend on the quality of the proposals received and the ability of the funded projects to contribute to a fairer and safer Cape Verde. By investing in researching and analysing human trafficking, we are investing in the future of Cape Verdean communities and demonstrating our commitment to protecting human rights.
The deadline for submitting tenders is 4th December 2025.
Access the application portal and full guidelines https://poverty-action.org/application-guidelines-htri-seed-funding-round-4
