Every year on July 30th, people around the world unite to observe World Day Against Human Trafficking. This day serves as a stark reminder of the millions of individuals who are victims of one of the most egregious violations of human rights – human trafficking. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness, advocating for victims, and reaffirming our collective commitment to eradicate this modern-day slavery.
Recognizing the severity of the issue, governments, international organizations, NGOs, and civil society have mobilized efforts to combat human trafficking. The United Nations has played a central role through initiatives like the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, which provides a framework for countries to address trafficking comprehensively.
Victims of human trafficking often face profound physical, psychological, and emotional trauma. On World Day Against Human Trafficking, it is essential to highlight the need for comprehensive support services for survivors. This includes access to medical care, counseling, legal assistance, and opportunities for education and employment. Empowering survivors to rebuild their lives is integral to breaking the cycle of exploitation.
2024’s theme for the global campaign “urges accelerated action to end child trafficking”.
Did you know that 1 in 3 victims of human trafficking globally is a child? In Belize, of the 7 active cases of 2023, over 80% of the suspected victims are girls under 18.
According to UNODC,
“children are twice as likely to face violence during trafficking than adults, according to the UNODC’s Global Report on Trafficking in Persons (GLOTIP). Regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean bear a disproportionate burden, with children making up for 60 per cent of detected trafficking victims.”
As we approve the 10th World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on 30th July 2024, we resound what UNODC has stated, “it is crucial to address the shortcomings and accelerate action to #EndHumanTrafficking”
If you would like to read more about the 2024 theme, you can visit the link: World Day Against Trafficking in Persons – 30 July (unodc.org)