General Assembly

The United Nations General Assembly’s Role in Combatting Human Trafficking

The United Nations General Assembly is a forum for member states to come together to discuss and address global challenges, including human trafficking. The General Assembly plays a critical role in setting international standards and policies related to human trafficking, and in promoting cooperation between countries to combat this issue.

One of the key ways in which the General Assembly addresses human trafficking is through the adoption of international treaties and agreements. These include the United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, which provides a framework for countries to take action to prevent and combat trafficking.

The General Assembly also encourages member states to implement comprehensive approaches to combat human trafficking, which includes victim identification and protection, effective law enforcement, and support for survivors. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) provides technical assistance and support to member states in these areas.

To raise awareness about human trafficking and promote action to address the issue, the General Assembly designates July 30 as the World Day against Trafficking in Persons. This day provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of preventing and combatting human trafficking and to honor the victims and survivors of this crime.

The United Nations General Assembly’s work in combatting human trafficking is a critical part of the global effort to address this issue. By promoting international cooperation and setting standards for action, the General Assembly is helping to ensure that vulnerable individuals are protected from exploitation and that traffickers are brought to justice.