SS Report
Dhaka, 30 July 2025:
Bangladesh today marked the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2025 with a strong national call to action under the global theme: “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime – End the Exploitation.”
The high-level observance was organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs in partnership with the Counter-Trafficking in Persons Technical Working Group (CTiP TWG) of the Bangladesh United Nations Network on Migration.
Held in Dhaka, the event brought together senior government officials, law enforcement agencies, development partners, UN entities, and civil society representatives. The focus remained on dismantling trafficking networks, strengthening victim protection mechanisms, and enhancing cooperation at the national and international levels.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Khondakar Md Mahabubur Rahman, Additional Secretary (Political & ICT), Ministry of Home Affairs, reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to fighting human trafficking through stronger laws, institutional capacity building, and regional collaboration. ‘Protecting victims and ensuring justice must remain central to our efforts,’ he stated.
Dr. Bernd Spanier, Chargé d’Affaires of the EU Delegation to Bangladesh, emphasized Europe’s priority in addressing trafficking by reducing demand and supporting survivors, especially women and children. Ms. Sujin Kong, Deputy Country Director of KOICA, and Mr. Lance Bonneau, Acting UN Resident Coordinator and Chief of IOM, echoed the urgency of global cooperation and survivor-centered responses.
Senior law enforcement officials reiterated their commitment to tackling trafficking as organized crime. Technical presentations by the Ministry of Home Affairs and CTiP TWG highlighted emerging trafficking trends and strategic responses.
A survivor’s testimonial provided a poignant human perspective, while a cultural performance concluded the event, amplifying public awareness.
The observance is part of a week-long national campaign that includes social media outreach and grassroots awareness efforts, reinforcing Bangladesh’s commitment to ending human trafficking and supporting survivors.
Source: IOM, Dhaka Office
