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Since 2021, the International Survivors of Trafficking Advisory Council (ISTAC) has been a vital force in the fight against human trafficking, providing crucial guidance to the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). However, recent events have shaken its foundations, as over half of its members resigned in protest on March 27, 2024. The coincidence of the timing is noteworthy, as the OSCE is currently hosting its 24th Alliance against Trafficking in Persons Conference this week. The objective of this conference is to assess the effectiveness of existing prevention strategies and propose innovative solutions to redefine approaches towards prevention.

Collective Letter of ResignationPhoto byMedium.com

Demanding Answers & Change

Presently, a wealth of information is circulating across these platforms, underscoring the need for a response from the OSCE and heightened awareness regarding the challenges faced by survivor leaders within the anti-human trafficking domain.

Ayushman Bhagat on Twitter posted, "MAJOR SHAKE-UP Exposes the Anti-Slavery/Trafficking World: More than half of International Survivors of Trafficking Advisory Council members QUIT, citing Lack of leadership, sexual misconduct, and contractual abuse". (However Twitter will not allow us to embed that post here due to it being flagged as sensitive content)

Survivor Leaders Speak Out

Through social media posts these survivor leaders have not only raised awareness but also initiated crucial conversations about healing, justice, and the importance of solidarity in times of adversity. As their narratives continue to spread like wildfire, touching hearts and sparking a wave of empathy and action.

A Linkedin post shared by a unknown source, former ISTAC member, Regina Lee expresses her gratitude for participating in the inaugural Cohort. She then proceeds to outline her personal apprehensions:

In a supplementary tweet from an unidentified individual, Kelly Dore is depicted expressing her disappointment and profound sadness about her tenure as a member of the ISTAC council, highlighting the challenges and personal toll it has taken on her.

Shandra Woworuntu, the Chairwoman of the 1st ISTAC Cohort and a member of the 2nd Cohort, addresses a recent instance of alleged one-sided behavior in the handling of a sexual misconduct investigation and report by the OSCE:

Alisa Gbiorczyk, a former member of ISTAC, indicated that she planned to release a statement regarding the current situation.

She showcased her dedication by issuing an official statement and article on the online platform medium.com.

According to the statement made by Alisa Gbiorczyk, over half of the council resigned in protest, weary of empty promises and deaf to their pleas, leaving behind a fractured organization. Within the chambers meant for advocacy and justice, voices were stifled, truths were scorned, and dignity stripped away, revealing a betrayal that ran deep.

To my fellow colleagues who resigned, I extend my deepest admiration and solidarity. In the face of adversity, you stood tall, unwavering in your commitment to truth and justice. Though our time together may have been marred by strife, the bonds we forged shall endure as a testament to our shared struggle. Let this resignation be more than a mere footnote in history. Let it serve as a clarion call for change, a rallying cry for a new dawn of accountability and respect. - Alisa Gbiorczyk

In response to this betrayal, Alisa tendered her resignation, refusing to compromise principles for titles or accolades. She joined her resigned colleagues in solidarity, recognizing their shared commitment to truth and justice. Their resignation, she declared, should not be a mere footnote but a clarion call for change, demanding accountability and respect from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).

And so, with a heavy heart and a steadfast resolve, I tender my resignation. No title, no accolade, is worth the compromise of my principles. I refuse to be complicit in a system that tramples upon the very souls it purports to save. My allegiance lies not with a name on a roster, but with the countless survivors whose voices go unheard, whose suffering goes unseen. - Alisa Gbiorczyk

Their resignation, she asserted, was not about seeking attention but standing up for survivors worldwide, whose voices often go unheard and struggles remain unseen. By stepping down, they aimed to improve working conditions for their remaining colleagues and set a standard for how survivor leaders should be treated by institutions like ODIHR. Their statement underscored the ongoing struggle for equal treatment and recognition as professionals and experts advocating for the rights of survivors globally.

OSCE | ODIHR is Silent

This call emphasizes the importance of accountability and respect, aligning with the global movement advocating for the rights of survivors. It highlights the critical necessity for ODIHR to reassess its strategies when engaging with survivor leaders and to give precedence to the voices of those who have faced trafficking. It remains to be seen whether the OSCE will address or comment on this matter or opt to remain silent. The implications of their response, or lack thereof, extend globally to survivors and the broader movement.