UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged intensified world efforts on Tuesday to fight little one trafficking on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
Highlighting the vulnerability of youngsters, Guterres mentioned: “On this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, we focus on the most vulnerable among us — children.”
“Children account for one-third of trafficking victims, suffering unspeakable abuse — whether they are forced into labor, sold off as brides, recruited as soldiers, or coerced into criminal activities,” he mentioned.
Emphasizing the rising inequalities and globalization as components complicating the combat towards trafficking, Guterres highlighted the position of on-line platforms in exposing youngsters to exploitation.
“The physical and psychological scars of these crimes persist long into adulthood, robbing them of their innocence, futures and fundamental rights,” he mentioned.
Noting the significance of tackling the foundation causes of exploitation, Guterres mentioned: “We must strengthen protection responses-including child-sensitive justice mechanisms, raise awareness, support unaccompanied children on the move, provide care for survivors and tackle the root causes of exploitation by helping vulnerable families.”
“I call upon governments, civil society, and the private sector, including tech companies, to intensify their efforts and collaboration so that no child is victimized and no trafficker goes unpunished,” he mentioned.
Guterres additionally urged a dedication to a future the place each little one is protected and free.
Source: www.anews.com.tr