UNODC holds Fourth Multi-Stakeholder Coordination Meeting on Combating Trafficking in Persons in Uzbekistan in 2023

On 24 October 2023, UNODC held the fourth multi-stakeholder coordination meeting in Uzbekistan to combat trafficking in persons

The meeting brought together key stakeholders from various organizations, including  the National Commission on Combating Trafficking in Persons and Forced Labor, Sub-Commission on Combating Trafficking in Persons, Supreme Court, Supreme Judicial Council, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, U.S. Embassy in Uzbekistan, U.S. State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, the International Organization for Migration, Winrock International, and NGO “Istiqbolli Avlod”.

The meeting covered a range of important agenda items, including a review of the state of trafficking in persons in Uzbekistan and ongoing activities. The meeting also served as a platform for discussions on upcoming activities and approaches to improving cooperation among stakeholders.

Mr. Azamatbek Salikhov, UNODC National Programme Officer, highlighted the significance of these coordination meetings, stating, “These meetings allow us to consolidate our efforts in the fight against trafficking in persons. They provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies, share experiences, and plan future activities. One such initiative is the Training of Trainers Seminar on Trafficking in Persons scheduled for November 6-8, along with trainings for airport employees in Bukhara, Fergana, and Namangan in November. We are also excited about the upcoming study visit of the delegation of the Republic of Estonia to discuss prospects of cooperation in combating Trafficking in Persons. These activities reflect our commitment to continuous support in combating trafficking through international cooperation”.

Mr. Nate Rettenmayer, Director of the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, expressed his support for Uzbekistan's efforts in combatting trafficking, stating,  “The international community stands firmly with Uzbekistan in its efforts to combat trafficking. The engagement of various stakeholders in this meeting demonstrates a commitment to this cause and paves the way for productive collaboration”.

Mr. Akobir Boboev, Head of the Unit for Combating Trafficking in Persons of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, shared insights about the cooperation with UNODC, saying, “UNODC has been an essential partner in our fight against trafficking in persons. We have made significant progress, and our partnership has been invaluable. The exchange of knowledge and expertise has helped us in our endeavors”.

During the meeting, participants also engaged in a thoughtful discussion about emerging trends in trafficking in persons. Traffickers continually adapt to changing circumstances and “new realities”, necessitating an ongoing commitment to vigilance and cooperation. Recent trends discussed included the increased use of technology and social media for recruitment, trafficking routes from Uzbekistan to third countries such India, Turkey, Thailand and others, and the exploitation of vulnerable populations, including migrants. Participants noted that recognizing these evolving trends is essential for all stakeholders to stay ahead of traffickers and ensure that counter-trafficking efforts remain effective in the face of new challenges.

Moreover, the coordination meeting participants emphasized that a robust system for identification and investigation is the cornerstone of combating trafficking in persons effectively. By prioritizing these critical aspects, law enforcement can provide justice for victims and send a strong message that trafficking will not be tolerated in Uzbekistan.

In addition to its substantive discussions and strategic planning, the fourth Coordination Meeting served as an invaluable networking opportunity for all participants. The meeting provided a platform for stakeholders from various sectors to build and strengthen collaborative relationships. These connections are essential in the fight against trafficking, as they enable real-time information sharing, the exchange of best practices, and the development of innovative strategies. By bringing diverse parties together, the meeting not only promoted collaboration but also reinforced the collective commitment to combatting trafficking in persons.

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The multi-stakeholder coordination meetings initiative, which focuses on countering trafficking in persons, was inaugurated in February 2022. This platform serves as a platform, bringing together government authorities, donors, international and non-governmental organizations to facilitate more effective and sustainable coordination in the fight against trafficking. The initiative operates under the umbrella of the UNODC Global Programme against Trafficking in Persons, with financial support provided by the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.