Building Evidence to Drive Change

 we believe that effective action against human trafficking begins with evidence. Our research and knowledge generation efforts are designed to fill critical data gaps, elevate survivor experiences, and inform policies, programs, and public discourse in Uganda and the wider region.

 

Our Strategic Objective

To generate credible, context-specific, and actionable data on human trafficking to inform policy, programming, and public awareness.

 

Why It Matters

Human trafficking in Uganda is driven by complex factors such as poverty, conflict, unsafe migration, and weak human rights protections. Despite its scale, the national response is hindered by limited, fragmented data. Without strong evidence, interventions risk being misaligned or ineffective. CATRE is working to change that.

 

What We Do

 

Collaborative Research
We conduct peer-reviewed studies in partnership with individual researchers and local, national, and international institutions.

Rapid, Targeted Studies
Our team leads short-term, applied research projects to support local organizations, inform real-time decision-making, and address urgent needs related to prevention and survivor reintegration.

Implementation Science
We evaluate how survivor-centered interventions can be scaled and sustained within Uganda’s systems. This helps ensure policies and programs are not only effective, but adaptable and long-lasting.

Research Capacity Building
CATRE is developing into a national hub for trafficking-related research, offering access to research outputs, internships, and volunteer opportunities for young scholars and practitioners.

Focus on Trauma & Recovery
We prioritize research on trauma-informed care, especially for vulnerable populations such as women, children, and youth affected by trafficking.

Priority Research Themes

  1. Mental health and trauma-informed interventions for survivors
  2. Drivers and root causes of child trafficking in Uganda
  3. Gendered impacts of human trafficking
  4. Technology-enabled trafficking and digital safety
  5. Socioeconomic implications of trafficking on communities
  6. Reintegration and long-term recovery for survivors
  7. School dropout, violence, and child trafficking