Every year on July 30th, the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (WDATIP) is observed to raise awareness about the plight of human trafficking victims and protect their rights.
According to IOM, trafficking is a grave human rights violation that occurs in vulnerable situations and is a major crime.
This year's theme, "Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind," highlights the importance of an integrated approach towards addressing trafficking.
In a speech on the WDATIP, Egypt's Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli emphasized that Egypt has made significant progress in combating human trafficking at all levels. "Despite ongoing economic challenges, Egypt has taken various precautionary measures to ensure a decent life for its citizens and protect them from exploitation," he said.
Madbouli affirmed that human trafficking is a heinous crime that poses a threat to all of humanity, particularly vulnerable groups.
He also noted that the current crises, such as the COVID-19 outbreak and conflicts in Arab and African regions, have created fertile ground for human trafficking gangs to lure victims.
"To combat this issue, countries must work together and promote sustainable development to improve the quality of life for individuals while safeguarding their fundamental right to live in peace and freedom," he added.