UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, has urged member states to urgently ratify and fully implement the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime and its protocols and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.
Ban made the call on Tuesday in New York while declaring open a High-Level Event entitled: "In Stronger Partnership and Coordination to Stop Human Trafficking: Eradicating Modern-Day Slavery through Sustainable Development.’’
He also called for their full support for the UN Voluntary Trust Fund for Victims of Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children and the UN Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery.
``We must end the suffering of all victims of trafficking, including those subjected to slavery, servitude, forced labour or bonded labour.
``Each one deserves protection and support.
`Each one deserves justice and opportunity.
``The promotion of human rights is central to our strategy.
``Let us also work together to share information and block criminal safe havens.’’
The purpose of the meeting, he said, was to strengthen partnerships and coordination, adding that the UN was determined to stop human trafficking.
The UN chief noted that ``we are committed to eradicate modern-day slavery through sustainable development.
``Unity of action is essential.
``This pressing issue, along with its criminal kin --- migrant smuggling, touches many concerns raging across the world.’’
Ban said no fewer than 60 million women, children and men were fleeing conflict, escaping wars, or seeking a better life, yet, as they made their journey, many were being coerced into exploitation.
``Thousands are dying on sea and on land at the hands of callous smugglers.
``Far too many are women and children.
``Europol recently found that as many as 10,000 vulnerable children travelling toEurope have simply disappeared, while some may be hiding in plain sight and others are held in darkness.’’
In Central America, he said, children on the move had continued to be vulnerable to abduction, abuse and exploitation along their treacherous trek.
Southeast Asia, he added, was another tragic source, transit and destination for migrant smuggling, stressing that ``no region is immune.
``Indeed, we have identified victims from 152 different citizenships in 124 countries across the world.
``The 2030 Agenda promises more peaceful, just and inclusive societies which are free from fear and violence.”
He then urged member states to make the most of the opportunity and work together for a world of universal respect for equality and non-discrimination; a world where the rights of all, regardless of national and social origin, could be protected.
Credit: NAN
No comments:
Post a Comment