ISLAMABAD: Charge d’Affaires of the US Mission to Pakistan Ms Natalie Baker has emphasised the importance of sustained global and local cooperation to eradicate human trafficking.

Speaking at a workshop on Trafficking in Persons (TIP), she highlighted the US embassy’s ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at combating human trafficking, recognising that the fight requires strong partnerships between governments, law enforcement, and non-governmental organisations.

“We must remain steadfast in our efforts and continue working together to end human trafficking, ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals,” Ms Baker told a ceremony here on Thursday.

The Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO), in collaboration with the US embassy , organised the event marking the conclusion of a key initiative aimed at combating human trafficking in Pakistan.

The event brought together US embassy officials, diplomats, UN agencies, government representatives, law enforcement officials, civil society organisations , parliamentarians and key stakeholders to reflect on the progress achieved and discuss the way forward in addressing this grave human rights violation.

Executive Director of SSDO Syed Kausar Abbas spoke about the growing threat of Trafficking in Persons (TIP), noting how organised mafias exploit vulnerable communities for forced labour, commercial sex, drug trafficking, and money laundering.

He praised the proactive efforts of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), police and parliament in addressing human trafficking.

Additional Director General of the FIA Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Unit Jan Mohammad underscored the critical nature of addressing TIP as a form of human rights exploitation. Jan emphasised the strong partnership between the FIA and SSDO, stating that their joint efforts have been instrumental in raising awareness, improving victim support mechanisms, and enhancing the capacity of law enforcement to tackle TIP cases.

“It is our duty to combat this exploitation of human rights, and the collaborative efforts of FIA and SSDO are essential in ending this crime,” he said.

Chairperson of the Special Committee on TIP in Punjab Uzma Kardar noted that in 2018 the term “TIP” was not widely recognised in Pakistan. Today, however, there is a broader understanding of the issue, and TIP cases are increasingly being reported.

Courage of women police officers praised

US Charge d’Affaires Natalie Baker while speaking at the launch ceremony for US-funded ‘Pasban Awam Saath Saath’ (Police-Community Together Programme), said the courage of Pakistan’s women police officers has not only transformed their communities but also earned global recognition, and the United States is proud to have supported many women police delegations to international conferences over the last year.

She said: “This extraordinary partnership between Pakistan’s civilian security agencies, the US Institute of Peace, and the US Embassy stands as a beacon of collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose.”

“Together, we are making history by empowering women in law enforcement and fostering a new era of citizen-focused policing in Pakistan,” the US official said.

“Your courage moves us, your commitment inspires us, and your sacrifices humble us. On behalf of the United States, we honor your service and pledge to continue supporting women leaders in law enforcement,” Natalie Baker said.

In observance of the ’16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence”, the US embassy official said the United States is investing in the safety of women and girls in Pakistan, in addition to this program.

“Our commitment to gender equality goes beyond recognition; it’s about action and creating safe spaces for women,” she said.

The United States stands steadfast with Pakistan in building a future where women in law enforcement are not just participants but leaders. That is our shared commitment. “Together, we aim to create a civilian security sector that reflects our shared values of equality, justice, and peace”, Natalie said.

US has also supported five new Anti-Rape Crisis Cells across Pakistan that provide comprehensive services and support to survivors, including legal services and forensics.

Published in Dawn, December 6th, 2024