ISLAMABAD – United Kingdom has collaborated with Pakistan to train frontline officers to tackle Modern slavery and human trafficking.
Special Border Forces visited Asian nation to provide Modern Slavery and Anti-human Trafficking training at Islamabad and Lahore Airports.
Britain reiterated to take up modern slavery and human trafficking as top priority as government, along with law enforcement agencies, collaborates closely with Pakistani counterparts to protect vulnerable victims and prosecute traffickers across borders.
In anticipation of ‘World Day Against Trafficking in Persons’, 31 frontline officers gets training focused on safeguarding and the early identification of victims.
Officers responded positively to the training, gaining a strong understanding of the importance of protecting potential victims. Using UK case studies, the training equipped officers with the skills to identify victims early, support vulnerable individuals, and comprehend the impact of trafficking. It also addressed issues like forced and early marriages, honour-based abuse, and female genital mutilation.
Amanda Read, the National Operational Lead for Safeguarding and Modern Slavery at Border Force, who oversees a network of over 500 specialist officers, stated:
“This training allowed us to share the best practices developed in the UK and understand the challenges faced in Pakistan. Cooperation is crucial. We look forward to continuing our collaboration to better protect the vulnerable and prevent all forms of exploitation.”
Jane Marriott, the British High Commissioner called Modern slavery and human trafficking intolerable tragedies. Early identification of victims and international cooperation are essential. This is a global issue that requires joint efforts to tackle, she adds.
