Presentation by Livia Valensise (Ban Ying e.V.)

About

Ban Ying e.V. was founded in 1989 as a coordination and counseling centre against the trafficking in human beings. It is the oldest women's project in Berlin working to combat human trafficking by supporting migrant women, who have experienced violence, exploitation or trafficking. Ban Ying e.V. offers advice and counseling services to migrant women and transgender individuals in Berlin and other parts of Germany. Under certain circumstances, Ban Ying e.V. also offers their services to migrant men.

The aim of Ban Ying's work is to improve the living conditions and social and legal situation of migrant women in Germany. In order to achieve this, their work does not only focus on migrant women who have been affected by violence, but also on their environment and the wider public sphere (through trainings of public sector employees and advocacy). In addition to the coordination and counseling centre, Ban Ying e.V. also run a shelter where women who have been affected by human trafficking can seek refuge. Ban Ying's advice and counseling services are free of charge. Language mediation is provided when and if required. Ban Ying e.V. follow an anti-racist, non-discriminatory and gender-sensitive approach and work in a non-confessional way. 

Livia Valensise is a social psychologist with experience working in migration research and social assistance. She is currently involved with Ban Ying e.V. as project coordinator. 

The project realised at Centrum is generously supported by the Canadian Embassy.