In a significant step forward, Liberia has demonstrated its commitment to combating the grave issue of human trafficking, showcasing notable progress in both prevention and prosecution efforts.
The West African nation has intensified its fight against the heinous crime, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
Recent months have seen a surge in efforts by Liberian authorities to dismantle human trafficking networks operating within the country. Law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with international organizations, have conducted targeted operations to rescue victims and apprehend traffickers.
These operations have not only resulted in the rescue of numerous victims but have also unveiled the extent of the networks involved in this illicit trade.
Liberia’s Minister of Labor, Cllr. Charles H. Gibson presenting the 2022-2023 Trafficking in Person Report Wednesday January 17, 2024, highlighted substantial progress made in addressing the serious issue of human trafficking in the country.
He named the establishment of a specialized section to investigate traffickers, and construction of at least three safe homes for victims of human traffic and the provision of medical care as well as resettlement package as some strides made by the Weah led government to tackle the issue of human trafficking.
Minister Gibson underscored the importance of such a specialized unit in dismantling trafficking networks and bringing perpetrators to justice.
Cllr. Gibson however acknowledged the severity of the human trafficking problem and its impact on vulnerable populations especially people seeking external employment while emphasizing Liberia’s commitment to eradicating this illicit trade within its borders.
The minister revealed that one of the pivotal steps taken to combat human trafficking was the establishment of a specialized section at the Liberia National Police (LNP) dedicated solely to investigating and apprehending traffickers.
This unit is equipped with trained personnel and resources to ensure a focused and effective response to cases related to human trafficking. Minister Gibson underscored the importance of such a specialized unit in dismantling trafficking networks and bringing perpetrators to justice.
Support for Victims
Minister Gibson underlined the government’s commitment to providing support and rehabilitation services for victims of human trafficking. This includes counseling, medical assistance, and efforts to reintegrate survivors back into society.
According to the Minister, victims of human trafficking who have gone through various forms of humiliation are being repatriated and provided care before reintegrating them in the society.
‘Girls affected’
Giving further details on progress been made to tackle human trafficking, the Liberia Labor Minister added that a new regulation No. 18 has been developed in order to legalized external employers to avoid abusing people they are recruiting especially young girls.
“Our people have been maltreated mainly our girls because they don’t fight back and our government spent thousands of taxpayers’ money to bring them back”, he added.
As Liberia continues to make strides in tackling human trafficking, the hope is that these efforts will serve as an example for other nations facing similar challenges, fostering a collective determination to eliminate this grave violation of human rights worldwide.
