Between January and July 2020, the Counter-Trafficking in Persons Unit (C-TIPU) received 22 reported cases of suspected trafficking of which eight were confirmed as cases of trafficking in persons. A total of 43 victims of human trafficking were identified and assisted by the Unit.
Victims of human trafficking are exploited, and their basic human rights violated, says Coordination of C-TIP, Tanisha Williams-Corbin. The common forms prevalent in Guyana are forced labour, sexual exploitation and domestic servitude.
Williams-Corbin also acknowledged the critical role the public plays to arrest this societal problem, adding that C-TIPU will continue to develop and disseminate educational materials to the general populace on the phenomenon of human trafficking.
“It is important to engage the community as victims often do not self-identify. Most of
them never come forward to the authorities. We encourage you to report any suspicious
activities to the 24 hours hotline numbers 227-4083 or 623-5030. Your calls are treated
with the strictest confidentiality”, she added.
Blue balloons were released yesterday in recognition of survivors and victims of human trafficking both locally and internationally, as (C-TIPU) launched its week of activities in observance of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons Day which is commemorated annually on July 30.
Representatives from the C-TIPU and the Ministerial Task Force on Trafficking in Persons converged at the Georgetown Seawalls to release the balloons.
Prior to the balloons’ release, the team observed a moment of silence in solace with survivors and victims of trafficking in persons globally. This year’s theme is “Embracing Diversity, Reducing Vulnerabilities, Promoting Safe Migration.”
