EU, IOM Back Puntland Counter Trafficking Strategy Review

By International Office of Migration (IOM)

GENEVA, Switzerland, July 10, 2015/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- IOM has organized a European Union (EU)-funded workshop with the Puntland Counter Trafficking Board (PCTB) to review an action plan and response strategy to address human trafficking in the Puntland State of Somalia.

The Djibouti meeting, which included representatives from nine ministries, identified key areas and its conclusions will be used to develop a first counter trafficking strategy document that can be replicated in the other regions of Somalia.

The strategic and operational priorities address the prevention of human trafficking, strengthening the capacity of law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of traffickers under a clear legal framework, and the protection of victims.

The process included stakeholder mapping and outlining the mandate and involvement of the respective ministries and other actors to ensure a coordinated response.

Speaking during the workshop, the Head of Puntland's Criminal Investigation Department, Ibrahim Ali, representing the Ministry of Security and Demobilization, Disarmament and Reintegration (DDR), said:

β€œThe Puntland Authority looks forward to receiving a comprehensive document which will guide all partners in their efforts to combat human trafficking in Puntland.”

IOM will continue to provide technical support to the PCTB in the development of the action plan, in close coordination with the Ministry of Security and DDR and the Ministry of Women Development and Family Affairs. It will also continue to work closely with UNODC – the UN drugs and crime agency – which participated in the workshop.