Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif says Pakistan is reinforcing preventive measures, law enforcement coordination, and international cooperation to eliminate human trafficking and protect victims.
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to combating human trafficking, describing it as one of the world’s most serious organized crimes and a grave violation of human rights.
In his message on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed on July 30, the prime minister said Pakistan joined the international community in renewing its resolve to strengthen collective efforts against the transnational crime.
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that human trafficking could only be eliminated through a united, determined, and effective strategy at both the national and international levels. He said comprehensive planning, supported by legal, administrative, social, and public awareness measures, was essential to dismantle trafficking networks.
The prime minister noted that human trafficking is closely linked to other organized crimes, including illegal migration, forged travel documents, money laundering, and forced labour. He emphasized that close coordination among all relevant national institutions was critical to addressing the complex causes and consequences of the crime.
Highlighting the government’s response, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan has developed a proactive strategy for all law enforcement agencies, particularly the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), to prevent trafficking offences before they occur and disrupt criminal networks.
He added that the government continues meaningful cooperation with provincial authorities, local law enforcement agencies, and international partners, including Interpol and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), to strengthen anti-trafficking efforts.
The prime minister also called on citizens to play an active role by reporting suspicious activities through FIA helplines and official reporting portals, saying public awareness and civic responsibility are vital in the fight against traffickers.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that victims of human trafficking should not be treated as criminals but as individuals in need of protection, compassion, psychological support, and dignified rehabilitation. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring victims receive legal assistance, counseling, and rehabilitation services to help them rebuild their lives.
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