Bangladesh calls for global cooperation and stronger laws to end human trafficking crisis
A powerful survivor testimonial, Voice of the Victim, served as a poignant reminder of the human impact of trafficking and the importance of survivor-centred, trauma-informed approaches
Bangladesh marked the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2025 with renewed urgency to tackle the country's ongoing human trafficking crisis, recognising it as a grave rights violation and a serious form of organised crime.
A national observance was held today in Dhaka, jointly organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs and CTiP TWG of the Bangladesh UN Network on Migration (BDUNNM), under this year's global theme, "Human Trafficking is Organised Crime: End the Exploitation."
Chief Guest Khondakar Md Mahabubur Rahman, Additional Secretary of the Home Ministry, said Bangladesh remains committed to ending trafficking through stronger laws, greater capacity, and global cooperation, with justice and victim protection at the centre.
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Echoing this call, Special Guests representing key international partners shared their perspectives and reaffirmed their support.
Bernd Spanier of the EU Delegation said combating trafficking and irregular migration is a European priority, with a focus on promoting safe, legal labour migration. "Each person not trafficked is one more life protected and restored," he noted.
Sujin Kong, Deputy Country Director of KOICA, expressed a strong commitment to support Bangladesh and other partners in building a free and safe society.
Representing the United Nations system, Lance Bonneau, Acting UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, added: "We must work together to identify and dismantle trafficking syndicates, disrupt their finances, and most importantly, rescue, rehabilitate, and reintegrate survivors."
Other distinguished speakers included senior representatives from the Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs, as well as senior officials from the Bangladesh Police who reiterated the law enforcement's role in addressing trafficking as an organised crime.
The event also featured technical presentations, which provided insights into emerging trafficking trends and national response strategies.
A powerful survivor testimonial, Voice of the Victim, served as a poignant reminder of the human impact of trafficking and the importance of survivor-centred, trauma-informed approaches.
A cultural performance and awareness segment concluded the programme, reinforcing key campaign messages for a broader audience.
