Seminar on Human Trafficking in Manila with Anders Oljelund

The Embassy of Sweden in Manila, the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) will hold a seminar entitled “Combating Trafficking Together” on Thursday, 7 June 2007 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Captain’s Bar, Mandarin Oriental Manila, Makati City.
The goal of the seminar is to have an open discussion on the possible measures to combat human trafficking, especially trafficking in women and children, both internationally and within the Philippines. This is also an opportune occasion to share experiences and ideas on existing and planned policies and regulations.  In hope that this seminar will contribute to a better understanding of the issues confronting everyone with regards to human trafficking.
Anders Oljelund will speak at the seminar and share experiences from Sweden on combating trafficking. Ambassador Oljelund will also meet with representatives of government institutions, development organizations and NGOs who are actively involved in the issues of human trafficking.
The seminar will bring together stakeholders from Government, NGOs, multilateral and bilateral development organizations and the media.
Trafficking in persons is a major social challenge and has become a global phenomenon.  It is the fastest growing criminal activity globally, placing third as a menace after drug trafficking and arms smuggling. Efforts have been galvanized towards bilateral and multilateral cooperation, all doing their best to fight trafficking focusing on prevention, assistance to victims, and prosecution of traffickers. 
Yet, like other countries, the Philippines is not spared as many of its migrant workers fall prey to traffickers.  Domestic trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation and forced labour is also increasing.  The Philippine Government has enacted Republic Act No. 9208, the “Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003”, to combat the scourge, but challenges remain in its implementation.

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