World Day Against Trafficking in Persons |30 July 2022

Minister Fonseka

Seychelles joins world to say NO to human trafficking

“Trafficking human beings is a billion-dollar industry that is ever evolving and Seychelles joins the world to say NO to this crime.”

This statement comes in a messge from the Minister for Internal Affairs, Errol Fonseka, on the occasion of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons being commemorated today, July 30.

The full text of Minister Fonseka’s message reads:

“July 30 observes the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, an event by the United Nations to raise awareness and increase prevention efforts.

“Human trafficking involves recruitment, transportation, and possession of individuals through coercion or other fraudulent means to exploit them for profit. “Anyone can be a victim of this heinous act regardless of age or background.

“There are many ways that people get involved in trafficking, but the result is the same and these human beings lose their rights, identity as they are used and abused.

“Our ministry is working hard towards identifying and fighting this crime, through coordinated efforts and working closely with our partners. This day also allows us to recognise the victims and hear their stories. Human trafficking reaches the core of society, and we are all affected in some way. I am hopeful that with more focus and effort allocated to investigation and prosecution, we can prevent further men, women and children from falling victim to human trafficking. Trafficking human beings is a billion-dollar industry that is ever evolving and Seychelles joins the world to say NO to this crime.”

Press release from the Ministry of Internal Affairs