"Going It Alone": Following the Male Cohort of Survivors of Sex Trafficking of the Chab Dai Butterfly Longitudinal Research Project

Author: Davis, Jarrett; Havey, James; Miles, Glenn; Channtha, Nhanh; Phally, Sreang & Vanntheary, Lim

Abstract: Over the past ten years, the Butterfly Longitudinal Research Project has followed 128 survivors of trafficking through their experiences in aftercare, reintegration, and beyond to better understand the recovery and reintegration of trafficking survivors within a Cambodian context. This paper focuses on the 19 males who were available to interview. Despite the project’s wealth of data and analysis, there are notable gaps regarding the male cohort. In response, this paper examines this cohort holistically, considering their statements and broader narratives, merging them with previous collective observations of the Butterfly Project. Throughout this paper, data indicates a pattern of violence among the male cohort. The paper finds high rates of both physical and emotional peer-to-peer violence during the male cohort’s time in residential care, as well as emotional violence from families following their community reintegration. Difficulties in work and school, frequent migration and housing instability are also prevalent. During aftercare, peer-to-peer violence is cited, with a majority describing a lack of trusting relationships. As respondents are reintegrated back into their communities, the majority report struggles with poverty and emotional violence from parents/carers. There is evidence of more positive peer relationships, fewer feelings of shame, and more trusting relationships. However, the majority still struggles with poverty, pressure to support their families, and poor emotional health. While peers are the primary source of violence experienced during aftercare, parents are most generally the source during the Reintegration and Life Beyond phases. Respondents describe deteriorating relationships with families/carers, increasing responsibility to be more independent, and continuing struggles to maintain their studies or employment.

Keywords: Cambodia, sexual exploitation, boys, shelter care, bullying, resilience, gender