PM Shah Urges All Levels of Government to Unite Against Human Trafficking

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has called for strong cooperation and coordination among federal, provincial and local governments, as well as other concerned agencies, to build a society free from human trafficking and smuggling. In a message marking Nepal’s 20th National Day against Human Trafficking, Prime Minister Shah described trafficking as a serious stain on human civilisation and noted that its growing presence as an organised transnational crime requires coordinated action. This year’s observance is being held under the slogan, “Proper use of technology and awareness: Unity for a nation free from human trafficking.” Shah said that rapid technological development is also changing the trends, methods, forms and destinations associated with human trafficking and smuggling, creating new challenges for prevention and control. He highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen policies and institutions in line with national and international commitments, while improving coordination among all three levels of government and relevant agencies. The Prime Minister also noted that a bill has been registered in Parliament to amend the Human Trafficking and Transport (Control) Act, 2007, in line with the Palermo Protocol, with the aim of strengthening international cooperation and protecting the rights of trafficking victims. He said Nepal is also adapting its legal and institutional mechanisms to the federal system and has introduced a policy focused on combating human trafficking. Shah stressed that the participation of provincial and local authorities, national and international non-governmental organisations, development partners and other stakeholders is essential to the campaign. He expressed appreciation to those supporting the government’s efforts and urged continued unity, cooperation and collective action, emphasising that only through joint efforts can Nepal create a society free from human trafficking and smuggling.