IFSW Human Rights Commission. Statement Regarding Trafficking and Exploitation.
Trafficking and exploitation continue to be a tragic reality for many women, children and men worldwide. No country is immune to this heinous crime. The most vulnerable are enslaved and forced into labour and/or sexual exploitation. It is one of the greatest violations of human dignity and human rights and causes enormous suffering.
Refugees and those migrating are at particular risk for human trafficking, especially child migrants travelling without family. As people flee violence and conflict in their home countries, restrictive migration policies and closed borders will only place them in dangerous situations. Therefore, it is vital that countries abide by international law and provide orderly, safe and just processing of migrants at their borders.
On World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, we strengthen our commitment as a profession of human right defenders. Social workers are at the frontline defending the dignity and unique worth of each individual and stand up for the rights of the victims, their families, and their communities. IFSW stands with international partners in voicing a commitment to end the exploitation of people for profit and the trafficking in persons.
Colleen Lundy.
IFSW Human Rights Commisioner