Troika call for end of human trafficking in South Sudan

July 29, 2023 (JUBA) – South Sudan’s transitional government and all those in positions of power should take steps to eradicate the scourge of human trafficking as well as meet the minimum standards of prevention and accountability in accordance with international laws, the Troika said on Sunday.

The Troika’s statement came as South Sudan joined the rest of the world to commemorate the Day Against Trafficking in Persons (TIP) on July 30.

“Addressing the issue of trafficking in persons in South Sudan is an imperative for upholding global responsibilities and safeguarding human rights. Those responsible for TIP and related crimes must be held accountable,” it reads in part.

The Troika, in the statement extended to Sudan Tribune, further noted with grave concern instances of trafficking that continue to occur in South Sudan, including those involving sexual and gender-based violence.  It cited cases of TIP in South Sudan to include abductions of women and children, the recruitment and use of child soldiers, child marriage, and the trafficking of commercial sex workers.

The United Nations Office for Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) said the total numbers of victims of trafficking detected around the world declined for the first time in 20 years as the pandemic limited opportunities for the trafficker and its detection.

(ST)