Islamabad: On the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, stakeholders including the Government of Pakistan and multiple international organizations reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing efforts against human trafficking, focusing specifically on protecting children and their rights. The event, themed “Leave no child behind in the fight against human trafficking,” emphasized the urgent need for concerted actions to address the rising challenge of child trafficking and labor.

According to United Nations Pakistan, the event was a collaborative effort by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO), along with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). The gathering highlighted the significant proportion of children among trafficking victims globally, with the situation exacerbated by rising inequalities and the challenges posed by globalization and online platforms.

During the event, national and international representatives discussed strategies to combat trafficking, focusing on enhancing legal frameworks, supporting victims, and improving migration management. The importance of public awareness and data-driven strategies to effectively prevent trafficking was also underscored. The conference concluded with a strong reaffirmation of the commitment to eradicating trafficking and ensuring that children’s rights and dignity are protected.