Bac’s Story

Bac has been a victim of human trafficking since he was two years old. Both he and his mother were tricked and sold to China, where they suffered terrible abuse. The man who purchased Bac’s mother as a wife in China would routinely torture both of them. ‘There were nights when I had no choice but to carry my child on my back and flee for my life into the mountains, where I knew we would be safe from my abusive husband. I was terrified,’ his mother shared. After the husband’s death, Bac and his mother were forced out of the house and left with nowhere to go. To make ends meet, Bac’s mother resorted to picking up trash and scraps, while Bac worked odd jobs in construction.

After being captured without any identification documents, Bac and his mother were handed over to the Vietnamese border patrol. With no property, identification, or clear recollection of their birthplace or relatives, they were returned to Vietnam.

Hagar was referred by the Peace House Shelter, a unit of the Central Vietnam Women’s Union, to assist Bac and his mother. Hagar Vietnam team had learned about their situation through the Border Patrol. They provided initial assistance that included safe accommodation, daily meals, and essential items. Despite being in his 40s, Bac lived in constant fear of arrest following the trauma of capture. He was so anxious that he wouldn’t leave the accommodation unless Hagar staff were present. Due to his limited grasp of Vietnamese, Bac often struggled to operate household appliances like air conditioners, electric kettles, and water heaters. In response, the Hagar case manager has provided Bac fundamental life skills, such as operating basic household equipment and engaging in daily activities. Regarding health, Hagar offered medical assessments and treatment services. The Hagar case manager continually supported and encouraged Bac throughout his recovery journey. Regarding legal procedures, Bac was provided information on the rights and obligations of Vietnamese citizens, as well as assistance in verifying his identity and obtaining identification documents.

The lives of both mother and son have significantly improved after seven months of assistance from Hagar. Bac’s mental stability and confidence in daily activities has grown. He could understand certain Vietnamese proverbs and can communicate in a basic manner. Under the Hagar case manager’s attentive supervision and encouragement, his health has also seen significant improvements.

Bac and his mother’s greatest hope is for the Vietnamese government to assist them in obtaining identification documents, so they can secure employment and stabilize their lives in their hometown of Vietnam. Despite the progress, Bac’s journey of reintegration still faces many challenges, and he will require assistance in various areas, in addition to his own strong will.