Recently, we were introduced to the organization AIESEC and were fortunate enough to sit down with some of its Romanian members. We wanted to share this blog post to recognize their efforts and congratulate them on the outstanding work they are doing in Romania. We are inspired by their actions and see how through their initiatives they can play an active role in preventing human trafficking.
AIESEC is an organization that prides itself on developing the leadership potential of youth through experiential learning and professional opportunities. AIESEC consists of 126 youth-run member committees around the world. They each manage and deliver youth programmes which are made possible by thousands of partner organizations and active volunteer and full-time members.
As the AIESEC in Romania President, Daniel Pleșa explained, “AIESEC offers leadership development opportunities to young people, through professional internships, volunteering programs and team experiences…we can define and measure your leadership development at every stage of your experience, so you can see your progress.”
Daniel Pleșa himself joined AIESEC in 2011 after he was constantly asked what was his purpose in life. Like most of the youth in Romania, he shares that he “had no idea about this, but I was curious to discover more, so I joined the organization.”
This is where eLiberare believes the work of AIESEC is so critical and necessary. We don’t view prevention of human trafficking as addressing one big issue, but rather the many smaller issues that contribute to it. Lack of professional opportunities, professional skills, and education are major root causes of human trafficking.
Bianca Paul, the Vice President of Community Development for AIESEC, explains: “The fact that the majority of youth are being oriented on early wealth and not self development, it’s like they think short-term. And this is influenced by the pressure their parents, society and school puts on themselves.”
This strive for money is a key contributor for human trafficking, however as Romanian youth participate in AIESEC projects, they become more self aware, learn how to engage with others, become more solution-driven, develop their leadership qualities, critical thinking skills and gain practical experience for their futures. Having more skills and experiences makes these youth less susceptible to accepting any luring job- either in Romania or abroad- that has the typical warning signs of “no experience necessary” or foreign “language skills not necessary”. Especially in this modern age where the majority of young students in Romania are jumping at the chance to work or study in another country, it is really great that AIESEC can provide these kinds of opportunities but in a safe and secure way.
Daniel Pleșa continues, “I consider that there are more than enough opportunities for youth. But, on the other hand, they are not aware and are not prepared for what is required. Hence, what I think is the biggest challenge is convincing “the big players” -companies, or the government-to invest in NGOs, to support [youth] with know-how, and money for them to recruit and prepare young people from an early age.” AIESEC has figured out a way to work with big companies and involve the government in its projects. It is great to see collaboration and partnerships for such an important cause between so many different actors in society.
Thank you AIESEC for your dedication to helping improve the lives of Romanian youth and ultimately making Romania a better place!