Develop strategies to combat human trafficking in S Asia

They said although governments and non-government organisations (NGOs) in the region have been combating the crime, the human trafficking still remains an issue of major concern due to its cross-boarder nature.

They emphasised the need for immediate signing of bilateral agreements among the countries for taking legal actions against the cross-border traffickers and repatriation of the victims.

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The two-day workshop titled "Improving and Developing the Strategies for Prosecution of Cross-boarder Traffickers and Smooth Repatriation of Trafficked Victims," organised by Bangladesh National Women Lawyers Association (BNWLA) began at the Brac Inn Centre here yesterday.

Representatives from the government and the NGOs working in this field in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal and Bhutan have been participating in the workshop.

With BNWLA president Advocate Sigma Huda in the chair, the opening session was addressed by regional representatives of International Organisations for Migration (IOM) Shahidul Haque, Ms Amna Selim of Pakistan, Ugyen Wangdi of Bhutan, Advocate Sanjoy Ghosh of India and Dr Renu Raj Bhandary of Nepal.

BNWLA executive director Advocate Salma Ali gave address of welcome.

The workshop comprising eight sessions will focus on developing effective strategies and new approaches for protection of victims and witnesses, prevention of trafficking, identification and repatriation of victims, ensuring trial of traffickers and creation of alternative opportunities for combating trafficking.

The speakers called for treating the human trafficking crime under the broader framework of the migration issue.

Describing poverty and underdevelopment as the major reasons for women and child trafficking in the region, Sigma Huda said the countries have to develop effective strategies and take coordinated measures to fight the menace.

"As this is a regional issue, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal and Bhutan are very much active with the burning issue but, the trafficking still remains an issue of concern due to its cross-boarder nature, she said.