The government has intensified its efforts to combat human trafficking and people smuggling through a range of robust measures designed to enhance border security and law enforcement capabilities. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced that the cabinet has approved two significant initiatives: a $500,000 investment aimed at improving the response to trafficking in persons, and the establishment of Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record systems to modernize and protect the nation’s borders.
Since taking office, the Prime Minister has prioritized the fight against human trafficking. Recent efforts include the implementation of improved victim identification processes and a centralized case management system, as well as revisions to the National Action Plan on Anti-Trafficking to steer comprehensive government initiatives.
Rabuka highlighted that an inter-ministerial taskforce, coordinated by the Office of the Prime Minister and comprising the Ministries of Justice, Policing, Immigration, and Finance, is actively providing strategic oversight and guidance. Significant reforms have also been made to the Immigration Act of 2003, aimed at consolidating border operations into a single, secure point and facilitating more efficient prosecution of trafficking-related offenses.
The Prime Minister mentioned ongoing collaborative investigations involving Immigration, Customs, and Police that are close to conclusion. He emphasized that improving prosecution and conviction rates remains a crucial goal, demonstrating the government’s firm stance against human trafficking.
These developments reflect a positive commitment to strengthening legal and operational frameworks to protect vulnerable populations and uphold human rights within the nation.
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