Kathmandu: Today, Nepal joins the world in observing the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, an important occasion to raise awareness and strengthen efforts to eliminate the heinous crime of human trafficking. The theme for this year's observance is 'Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind,' emphasizing the need to protect and support all those affected by trafficking.

Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights and a serious crime that affects thousands of men, women, and children each year, both within their own countries and abroad. Nearly every country is affected in some way, whether as a country of origin, transit, or destination for victims. The United Nations defines trafficking in persons as involving various elements, such as recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of individuals through force, coercion, deception, or abuse of power for the purpose of exploitation.

Exploitation can take many forms, including sexual exploitation, forced labor, slavery, servitude, and organ removal. It is vital to understand the devastating impact of trafficking on victims and the urgent need for global cooperation to combat this menace.

Unfortunately, various factors contribute to the vulnerability of individuals to trafficking. Global crises, conflicts, and the climate emergency have escalated trafficking risks, particularly among displaced populations and those facing socio-economic inequalities. People lacking legal status, living in poverty, with limited access to education, healthcare, or decent work, and belonging to marginalized communities are at higher risk of falling prey to traffickers.

Regrettably, national responses to trafficking appear to be deteriorating, especially in developing countries, as demonstrated by declining detection and conviction rates. The COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the situation by pushing trafficking deeper underground, making it harder for authorities to detect and intervene. This shift has resulted in fewer victims seeking help from law enforcement agencies, highlighting the need for more effective anti-trafficking responses.

Nepal, like many other countries, faces the challenge of controlling and preventing human trafficking. Women and children from Nepal are increasingly trafficked to different regions in Asia, the Arab world, Africa, Europe, and America. As the dimensions of human trafficking continue to expand, stakeholders stress the urgency of amending and implementing laws to combat this crime effectively.

One crucial aspect that stakeholders emphasize is the need for a comprehensive legal framework in Nepal to address the evolving nature of trafficking. Additionally, it is crucial to focus on protecting vulnerable groups, as men are also becoming increasingly susceptible to trafficking.

On this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, let us reaffirm our commitment to fighting this despicable crime. Governments, law enforcement agencies, civil society, and international organizations must work hand in hand to strengthen prevention, prosecution, and protection efforts. By leaving no victim of trafficking behind, we can strive for a world where exploitation is eradicated, and the rights and dignity of every individual are upheld. Together, we can build a future free from the horrors of human trafficking.