UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has stressed the need to confront the root causes of human trafficking, highlighting economic inequality, limited legal avenues for regular migration, and the need for conflict prevention and resolution as essential components of a comprehensive global strategy.
The country warned that restrictive visa policies and strict border controls could worsen the situation, forcing vulnerable people into the hands of human smugglers.
Speaking at the High-level Meeting of the UN General Assembly on the appraisal of the Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, said that armed conflicts, climate-related disasters, and widening economic gaps have further intensified human trafficking. He also noted a disturbing rise in the number of children becoming victims, which he said reflects the scale of the challenge.
Ambassador Jadoon underscored Pakistan’s position as a country of origin, transit, and destination for the movement of people, stressing the importance of addressing the issue on multiple fronts.
He said Pakistan is pursuing a two-pronged strategy: reinforcing domestic measures and expanding international cooperation to ensure a unified response to human trafficking. Detailing the steps taken, he said Pakistan has strengthened its efforts by launching a National Action Plan on Countering the Smuggling of Migrants (2026–2031), with a separate plan on Trafficking in Persons underway. An Integrated Border Management System has also been installed at all immigration points to tighten enforcement.
The ambassador added that more than 36,000 officials have been trained in anti-trafficking laws and enforcement with support from international partners. Over one hundred shelter homes have also been set up nationwide, offering psychological assistance, legal support, and vocational training to survivors.
Ambassador Jadoon said Pakistan hopes to further deepen cooperation with the international community, especially to ensure the effective implementation of the Global Plan of Action.
