New York: On the occasion of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the UN Secretary-General emphasized the critical need to intensify global efforts to combat human trafficking, particularly focusing on the protection of children, who represent one-third of trafficking victims.

According to United Nations Pakistan, the Secretary-General highlighted the severe impact of human trafficking on children, who are forced into labor, sold as brides, recruited as soldiers, or coerced into criminal activities. He noted that rising inequalities and globalization have advanced trafficking networks, challenging existing legal frameworks and introducing new forms of exploitation, including through online platforms which increase risks of sexual exploitation and gender-based violence.

The Secretary-General called on governments, civil society, and the private sector, including technology companies, to enhance their cooperation and efforts to ensure that no child is left behind in the fight against this crime, emphasizing the importance of child-sensitive justice mechanisms, raising awareness, supporting unaccompanied minors, and providing care for survivors. He urged for concerted action to tackle the root causes of exploitation and ensure that traffickers are brought to justice.