Message by Home Affairs Minister Charles Bastiennein observance of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons |30 July 2016

‘Injustice, brutality suffered by human trafficking victims immeasurable’

The injustice and brutality suffered by victims of trafficking in persons is immeasurable, making it a crime which the government of Seychelles has simply no tolerance for.

Home Affairs Minister Charles Bastienne has said this in his message to mark the third World Day against Trafficking in Persons which falls today.

The minister’s message reads:

“On this day, July 30, 2016, Seychelles joins the global community in marking the third World Day against Trafficking in Persons and denouncing this heinous crime against humanity.

“Trafficking in persons is a grave human rights violation that has devastated the lives of millions of people across the world, especially women and children. It is a serious crime which victimises often the most vulnerable and marginalised of our societies, affecting people indiscriminately, shattering their lives, families and dreams. The injustice and brutality suffered by victims of trafficking in persons is immeasurable, making it a crime which the government of Seychelles has simply no tolerance for.

“As part of a series of actions taken to combat trafficking in persons, we adopted a Standard Operating Procedure Manual and Referral Mechanism for Victims of Trafficking in Persons, a step-by-step guide for practitioners dealing with cases of trafficking in persons. These tools aim to improve the relationship between the various front-line agencies dealing with trafficking in persons, allowing their actions to be harmonised and holistic.

“The government of Seychelles remains determined to provide meaningful assistance to victims of trafficking in persons, including through effective protection and preventative mechanisms. In this view, training sessions have been held for front-line officers to build their capacity and to ensure that they can identify potential cases and shed light on a crime that is often hidden in the shadows.

“As we observe this day and recognise our achievements, it is also an opportunity to reflect what remains to be done. In a world that grows smaller each day, global issues have become local issues, and we must adapt and respond to new and emerging challenges of transnational organised crimes. We cannot and must not remain deaf, dumb and blind to a crime that can fester within our border, and as a country we must remain determined to speak for victims who often do not have a voice.

“I take this opportunity to reiterate the determination and commitment of the government of Seychelles to combat this cruel trade of human beings and to continue being part of the global effort to rid our world of this scourge. Let us together pledge that we will all do our part to ensure that this evil crime sees its end within our generation. Let us strive for a world where modern day slavery will no longer threaten any person, anywhere.”