STATEMENT BY THE SECRETARY-GENERAL OF THE OACPS, H.E. MR. GEORGES REBELO PINTO CHIKOTI, ON WORLD DAY AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

Brussels, 30 July 2020/OACPS:The World Day against Trafficking in Persons is observed every year on 30 July. On behalf of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) the Secretary-General, H. E. Mr. Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti, recalls that trafficking in persons is a violation of human rights and a heinous crime that knows no borders. He decries the immeasurable brutality and injustice associated with trafficking in persons. He also reiterates his grave concern that, despite efforts at national, regional and international levels, trafficking in persons remains one of the gravest challenges facing nations and the international community.

The Secretary-General welcomes the choice of this year’s theme that is focussed on, “The first responders to human trafficking”, who identify and support the victims. These include, inter alia, social workers, labour inspectors, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, health workers, and NGO staff. The OACPS commends the commitment of the first responders in providing much-needed support to the victims of trafficking, especially, during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

The Secretary-General applauds the efforts undertaken by Members of the OACPS in addressing this scourge, and calls on the need to foster global partnerships and solidarity in fighting against the trafficking in persons. He seizes this opportunity to reaffirm OACPS’ commitment to support actions taken by its Member States and calls on the international community to enhance and support a comprehensive, coordinated and consistent approach at all levels in order to counter trafficking of persons.