Islamabad, 8 August 2024 (TDI): Australia is stepping up to help Pakistan combat human trafficking with a new phase of support in latest initiative will strengthen vital systems and offer targeted training for investigators.
Phase II of the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Reporting Enhancement project, funded by the Australian Government, is set to boost Islamabad’s fight against human trafficking. This phase will upgrade the TIP hotline and referral system with improved infrastructure and a secure data management system.
The project will also boost the Federal Investigation Agency’s capacity by providing targeted training, improving their ability to handle smuggling cases effectively.
The project was launched at a signing ceremony attended by Neil Hawkins, the Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, and Geir Tonstol, the International Labour Organization Country Director for Pakistan. The Director General of the FIA also attended the event.
Phase II builds on the first phase’s achievements, which included the establishment of a Management Information System for TIP reporting and creating a framework for a TIP facilitation center. The current phase aims to further strengthen the FIA and users of the TIP Reporting Portal.
Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins stressed Australia’s commitment to combating human trafficking and modern slavery in Pakistan.
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He said that Australia’s support is about protecting human rights, advancing development, and enhancing the global standing of Pakistan. Partnering with the ILO and FIA, the goal is to create a stronger, more coordinated response to safeguard vulnerable individuals.
ILO Country Director for Pakistan, Geir Tonstol expressed enthusiasm for the second phase, aiming to boost the capacities of provincial and federal entities in reporting trafficking cases.
He stressed on the need of a comprehensive approach to tackling trafficking, focusing on prevention, protection, participation, prosecution, and partnerships.
Tonstol also underlined the significance of enabling conditions like freedom of association to eliminate unacceptable work forms. By integrating fundamental labor rights, workers can voice their concerns and advocate for their rights collectively.
The project aims to improve both domestic and cross-border efforts against smuggling and human trafficking and. By enhancing communication and collaboration among relevant authorities, the strengthened TIP reporting system will play an important role in preventing trafficking and protecting vulnerable populations.
