The government of the Maldives has reaffirmed commitment to effectively address the issue of human trafficking. The remarks were made in a statement released by the Ministry of Defence on the occasion of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (TIP).
In the press statement, the government stated human trafficking is a complex crime demanding a collective global response, noting there are currently over 24 million people who are victims of trafficking. The government acknowledged the victims suffer extraordinary deprivations and violations of their rights and freedom at the hands of criminals, adding no country or community is spared from this scourge.
Furthermore, the government stated the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing difficulties in addressing human trafficking, highlighting the damage the pandemic has caused on the socio-economic structures of countries, increasing the number of vulnerable people. The government noted this has provided human traffickers with more opportunities to exploit the marginalised. However, the government noted the Maldives remains committed to tackling human trafficking, with reference to the five ‘P’s; Policy, Protection, Prosecution, Prevention and Partnerships.
Highlighting the efforts of the Maldives to fight human trafficking, the government noted the Maldives had acceded to the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, in 2016. The statement further read the Maldives will ensure the protocol is fully implemented alongside the National Anti-Human Trafficking Action Plan 2020-2022. The statement also read the Maldives will ensure the policies and definitions relevant to trafficking align with the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organised Crime (UNTOC) and its protocol.
Furthermore, the government of the Maldives stated it continues to work with its international partners to develop new policies for labour and migration, while setting up social support services for victims of trafficking. The government stated the efforts will be overseen by the National Anti-Trafficking Steering Committee (NAHTSC) which was reconstituted by the current administration after two-year hiatus, adding the committee will ensure the full implementation of the Maldives National Anti-Human Trafficking Action Plan. The government also pledged to strengthen cross-border management and international cooperation to combat trafficking, while also ensuring public officials are trained to both counter trafficking and provide support to victims in fulfillment of the international obligations of the Maldives.
In the statement, the government highlighted the devotion of funds from the State Budget to the enforcement of the Anti-Human Trafficking agenda. The statement further read an Anti-TIP Office is being set up to coordinate all Anti-Human Trafficking efforts across the whole country. The government also highlighted efforts to establish a shelter for victims of trafficking in the Greater Male’ Region, with due consideration for women and children.
The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is marked annually on July 30.