World Day Against Trafficking in Persons

Tuesday marked World Day Against Trafficking in Persons and this year the focus is on raising awareness of the causes and vulnerabilities associated with child trafficking, under the theme ‘Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking.’

PICTURE: UNESCO

Traffickers exploit and profit from adults or children by forcing them to perform labour or sexual acts. There are different types of trafficking of which the most prevalent is: forced labour, domestic servitude, and sexual exploitation.

The Western Cape’s Social Development Department and Non-Profit Organisation, A21 Campaign, held a Trafficking in Persons Awareness Day on Monday at Cape Town’s Inter-Provincial Bus Terminal.

MEC Jaco Londt, urged the public to protect the vulnerable by reporting human trafficking to the authorities.

“We know that it is usually vulnerable people, like those living in poverty, who are targeted. Public transport terminals have become hotspots for trafficking activities. We wanted to share information with as many people as possible about the dangers of trafficking, what to look out for, and how to report this crime. Trafficking in persons violates our most fundamental human rights. That is why we need more partners to join DSD and organisations such as A21 to raise awareness in high-volume areas because this is the key to getting the message out there. If you see someone who may be in trouble, please call 0800 222 777, or report it to your nearest police station or your local DSD office.’’

A21 is one of the largest organisations globally fighting human trafficking. Its Western Cape branch is one of DSD’s funded NPO partners in the Victim Empowerment space.

“The reality is that 99% of victims will not be identified unless someone sees something and reports it. That’s why joint awareness operations like today are so important. We are encouraging community members to learn more about what trafficking looks like and know where to go to report it. We want to see more front-line professionals train the public on how to report and assist a victim,” said Katie Modrau, A21’s country manager.

 

Done By: Sihle Jezile