NGOs, government agencies, law enforcement, and civil society organizations today joined hands to observe the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2023 and stressed on strengthening prevention efforts, identifying victims, and holding traffickers accountable.
The theme for this year’s campaign was “Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind,” inspired by the central promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Commemorating the day, senior law enforcement officers, survivors, artists in partnership with Telangana State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (TSCPCR), T-HUB and others joined hands with Hyderabad based Youngistaan Foundation to hold a special publi dialogue and raise awareness on how Human trafficking, encompassing labor trafficking and bonded labor, is a heinous crime that ensnares victims in a web of coercion, exploitation, violence and deplorable living conditions.
The Chief Guests released a series of posters on Human Trafficking to mark the day.
Inspector Raju, Cyber crime Police said, “The key to combating human trafficking lies in education and awareness. Communities need to be informed about the tactics used by traffickers and the warning signs to look out for. By equipping individuals with knowledge, we empower them to be vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities promptly,”
Speaking at the event Srinivasa Rao, Chairman TSCPCR said “We will help all the children aged 0-18 with the issues they are facing. In India, from the last 3 years, 13 lakhs women and children are missing. The problem is always on the ground, it is very dangerous for the people from poverty. Women are forced into sexual activities and many more. It is possible to be controlled by us only. Our actions and our volunteer work can educate people about this issue, only save everyone from trafficking.”
Expressing his thoughts Anish Anthony, Chief Delivery Officer said “Social media has become the most addictive part of our daily lives. I just have to say one thing, be safe and make sure what you are posting on social media. If anything wrong goes wrong, please don’t hesitate to contact the police. India has got 900 million people who are active on social media and active on the internet. If all of us try to combat this trafficking online, we can have happy lives with technology.
Speaking of the event, Arun Daniel Yellamaty, Founder, Youngistaan Foundation said “Law enforcement plays a critical role in dismantling trafficking networks and ensuring that traffickers face justice. Governments must strengthen legislation to end the cycle of impunity that often shields these criminals from punishment.”
The audience witnessed Survivors of Bonded Labour sharing their testimonials, highlighting the prevalence of trafficking and need for victim support for rehabilitation.
A survivor said, “Access to shelter, medical care, legal aid, and education are essential to help survivors heal from their traumas and reintegrate into society with dignity and hope.”
A special Art Exhibition and live performance of CAPRICIO music band marked the occasion.