President,
The UN Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime, along with its supplementary Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, mark important milestones.
The Global Plan of Action plays an important role in the enforcement of these legal frameworks. We therefore welcome the adoption of the political Declaration.
As we mark the fifteenth anniversary of the Global Plan of Action, sadly, human trafficking continues to evolve.
Children are targeted and become victims of this abhorrent crime. The link between trafficking and organized criminal groups is especially concerning. New technology is used to exacerbate further crimes.
President,
To address these challenges effectively we must advance international cooperation and pursue an approach which puts victims and human rights at the center, with a particular focus on gender equality and the gender dimension of implemented measures.
The Norwegian government recently launched a new strategy against human trafficking.
The aim of the strategy is to eradicate trafficking by implementing broad and comprehensive prevention- measures through a holistic, societal approach, where public authorities and civil society work together to reduce the scope for exploitation.
President,
To make progress in combating human trafficking, and to advance this agenda, we believe the following steps are key:
First, effective international action and cooperation must be based on a comprehensive and holistic approach, and include gender equality.
Second, we must address the technological dimension of trafficking, with a particular focus on knowledge about how technology is used for recruiting victims, organizing criminal networks and enabling exploitation. We need to strengthen digital cooperation, to disrupt trafficking networks.
Third, we need to focus on effective prevention.
Finally, victims must be supported.
We call on all parties and stakeholders to intensify efforts and ensure that combatting human trafficking, remains a top priority on the international agenda.
Thank you.