Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso), 17 August 2023 - To mark World Day against Trafficking in Persons, Burkina Faso organized a panel discussion in Ouagadougou with the title "Repression of Trafficking in Burkina Faso: Current Situation and Perspectives.” The event served as the official launch of the Blue Heart Campaign against trafficking in persons in the country and also aimed at mobilizing stakeholders in the fight against human trafficking.
The panel discussion also highlighted the challenges of the ongoing security crisis in the country with a profound impact on vulnerable populations. Karim Zina, the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Family, highlighted the consequences of the crisis such as the mass displacement of people since 2015, which has increased the vulnerability of women and children to trafficking. Mr. Zina also expressed concern about traffickers exploiting this vulnerability, stressing the need for concerted efforts to address the issue effectively.
Despite Burkina Faso's dedicated efforts, human trafficking persists, affecting children and women especially, as emphasized by Abdoulahi Harouna, crime prevention and criminal justice officer at UNODC. Mr. Harouna stressed the importance of reinforcing legal, institutional, and judicial frameworks to prevent trafficking and prosecute those responsible.
The Blue Heart Campaign, which aligns with the goals of Burkina Faso's National Triennial Action Plan against Trafficking in Persons (2023-2025) is an important instrument for Burkina Faso to improve its fight against trafficking in persons.
The campaign's launch marks a strategic step toward mobilizing collective action and raising awareness, with the aim of safeguarding the rights and well-being of the nation's most vulnerable.
