Edo State Government has been called upon to extend anti-human trafficking efforts to rural communities through the establishment of Anti-Human Trafficking Response Units at the local government level and to strengthen policies and procedures for effective criminal justice response to trafficking.
This call was made by the Localising Trafficking in Persons Response Cluster, anchored by Uromi Justice Development Peace and Caritas Initiatives, during a sensitisation meeting and rally held in the three senatorial districts of Edo State to mark the 2023 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
According to the group, this step would not only serve as a preventive measure but also offer much-needed support for survivors through activating the Victims of Trafficking Trust Fund, a crucial source of funding aid for victims.
The event, aimed to conscientise the populace about the grave issue of human trafficking and encourage active reporting of cases to appropriate authorities, is part of an effort to promote community resilience against exploitation.
The sensitisation meeting and rally brought together community stakeholders, state and non-state actors, and members of the public to discuss and address various aspects of human trafficking. While emphasis was placed on strengthening practices that aid in prevention, identification, respite, and recovery for survivors, it was highlighted that fostering an environment conducive to sustaining freedom was essential in the fight against this heinous crime.
The community stakeholders and leaders actively engaged in discussions during the event on how to proactively identify and reach out to potential victims, especially those residing in vulnerable communities. Strategies to combat human trafficking within their respective communities were also shared and analysed, focusing on the significance of public awareness and education campaigns in the prevention process.
The event, which was made possible through the support of USAID under the SCALE-Palladium project, was also used to discuss what community leaders can do to combat human trafficking in their communities and proffer solutions on ways public awareness and education campaigns can be improved to prevent trafficking within their communities. Participants also delved into the reasons behind this low reportage and brainstormed strategies to enhance reporting of trafficking cases.
