Ministry of the Interior Hosts International Workshop to Strengthen Cross-Border Cooperation in Combating Human Trafficking
The Ministry of the Interior (MOI) hosts the “2024 International Workshop on Strategies for Combating Human Trafficking” today (August 28), with Deputy Minister of the Interior Maa Shyh-Yuan and distinguished guests jointly declaring their unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking and continuously strengthening cross-border cooperation in crime prevention. Maa Shyh-Yuan stated that this international exchange event on human trafficking prevention has been held for 16 consecutive years, serving as an important platform for interactions between Taiwan and various countries’ officials, scholars, experts, and civil society organizations on the issue of human trafficking prevention. This year, the workshop focuses on topics such as “Atypical Victims of Human Trafficking under Forced Criminality,” “Strategies for Preventing Transnational Human Trafficking Crimes,” “Key Strategies for Preventing Forced Labor and Organ Harvesting,” and “Protection and Challenges of Rights of Victims of Sexual Exploitation.” The aim is to enhance human trafficking prevention efforts through the sharing of insights by experts and scholars from different countries, ensuring better protection of fundamental human rights.
Deputy Minister Maa Shyh-Yuan pointed out that, according to United Nations statistics released in 2023, over 100,000 individuals have been lured to online scamming centers in Southeast Asia or other countries to engage in telecommunications fraud, many of whom are victims of human trafficking. Taiwan has also seen many of its nationals forced into telecommunications fraud activities overseas. However, due to the collaborative efforts of various government agencies, the number of victimized nationals has significantly decreased. Additionally, the amended “Human Trafficking Prevention Act,” effective January 1, 2024, has criminalized the use of others to commit acts punishable under Taiwanese law. If an individual is both a victim of human trafficking and a perpetrator of other criminal activities, judges will consider the circumstances of the crime and may grant immunity or reduced sentences to strengthen the fight against criminal organizations while ensuring human rights.
The Ministry of the Interior noted that this year’s international workshop on human trafficking prevention features the participation of 16 ambassadors or official representatives, and scholars and experts from 11 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, India, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. Approximately 300 participants, including government officials and representatives from civil society organizations, gathered to exchange and enhance strategies for preventing human trafficking. This event is expected to strengthen Taiwan’s connections and cooperation with other countries’ governments and international organizations.
Sources: Ministry of the Interior
