Fiji is intensifying its efforts to combat human trafficking, still facing challenges to fully meet international standards for eradicating this crime. During a national event to mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Aliki Salusalu, the newly appointed Permanent Secretary for Immigration, acknowledged that while the nation’s efforts have been recognized with a Tier 2 ranking in the U.S. Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report, these actions fall short of meeting expectations.
Mr. Salusalu pointed out that despite ratifying the UN TIP Protocol and implementing counter-trafficking legislation through the Crimes Decree of 2009, the government’s actions remain fragmented and reactive. He emphasized that human trafficking is not an isolated issue but a part of sophisticated global networks that generate over $150 billion annually, relying on corruption and regulatory loopholes to thrive.
He highlighted a grim reality: more than 50 million people are trapped in modern slavery globally, and Fiji, caught in the dynamics of being a source, transit, and destination country for trafficking, must enhance its responses. More aggressive measures are needed to disrupt financial motivations behind trafficking operations, including the focus on profit-driven activities.
Addressing the demand for cheap and exploitable labor is also critical. Mr. Salusalu stressed that without tackling this demand, efforts to stop trafficking will be ineffective. The need for improved financial regulations, better identification of trafficking victims, and stronger anti-corruption efforts was underscored in both previous reports and ongoing discussions among government officials and social service organizations.
The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has echoed these sentiments, highlighting cultural norms and slow policy implementation as significant obstacles in addressing trafficking effectively. Further, findings indicate that with the increase in foreign workers attracted by promises of better employment opportunities, vulnerabilities have heightened.
There is an emerging recognition of the urgency for a comprehensive, collaborative approach involving non-governmental organizations and international bodies to enhance awareness and provide robust legal frameworks. As discussions around human trafficking gain momentum in Fiji, there is a collective hope that these efforts will lead to tangible progress for the protection of vulnerable populations and reduction of trafficking incidents in the future.
With continued dedication and international collaboration, Fiji can strengthen its fight against human trafficking, providing a glimmer of hope in the ongoing battle for human rights and dignity.
Leave a comment