NEW YORK, 30th July, 2023 (WAM) – On this World Day against Trafficking in Persons, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the international community to redouble efforts to detect, protect, and support survivors of human trafficking and leave no trafficking victim behind.
‘’Together, let us build a world where no one can ever be bought, sold, or exploited,'' said Guterres in his message on the World Day against Trafficking in Persons, which is marked every year on 30th July.
‘’We must invest much more in detection and protection. We must strengthen law enforcement to bring criminals that commodify human beings to justice. And we must do more to help survivors rebuild their lives.''
‘’Human trafficking is a heinous violation of fundamental human rights and freedoms. It preys on vulnerability and thrives in times of conflict and instability,'' he added.
‘’Today – amidst growing inequalities, worsening climate emergencies, and record displacement – more and more people are left vulnerable to traffickers. The majority of detected victims are women and children, many of whom suffer brutal violence, forced labour, and horrific sexual exploitation and abuse. Yet traffickers continue to operate with impunity. Their crimes are receiving not nearly enough attention. This must change.''