Shakila Jalil
Islamabad:In a resolute display of unity, stakeholders from international organizations and the Government of Pakistan joined forces to combat human trafficking, with a special focus on protecting children. The joint commemoration of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2024, themed “Leave no child behind in the fight against human trafficking,” sent a powerful message: no child should fall victim to exploitation.
The event, organized by UNODC, ICMPD, ILO, IOM, SSDO, and FIA, highlighted the alarming rise in child trafficking, with girls disproportionately affected. Experts emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address this complex issue, which has been exacerbated by rising inequalities and globalization.
Country representatives from UNODC, ICMPD, ILO, IOM, SSDO, and FIA underscored the importance of protecting children and reducing their vulnerability to trafficking. Dr. Jeremy Milsom, Representative UNODC Country Office Pakistan, stressed that targeted measures are essential to combat child trafficking.
Geir Tonstol, Country Director for the ILO Pakistan, emphasized the urgent need for state systems to adopt integrated approaches prioritizing child protection. Vincent Matteau, Senior Programme Coordinator at IOM, called for stronger partnerships and improved migration management to combat child trafficking.
Syed Kausar Abbas, Executive Director of SSDO, highlighted the need for a systematic approach to victim identification and referral, while Fawad Haider, Head of Office at ICMPD, emphasized the importance of cooperative frameworks to safeguard children’s rights and dignity.
Senator Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, Chairperson National Commission on Rights of Child (NCRC), reaffirmed the commitment to combating trafficking, while Director General FIA Mr. Ahmad Ishaque Jahangir (PSP) emphasized the FIA’s leading efforts to combat human trafficking, enhanced through collaboration with partners.
The event concluded with a collective commitment to eradicating human trafficking in Pakistan, ensuring a future where every child is safe and free from exploitation.
