The 30th July observes the World Day Against Trafficking In Persons, an event by the United Nations to raise awareness and increase prevention efforts.
Human trafficking involves recruitment, transportation, and possession of individuals through coercion or other fraudulent means to exploit them for profit. Anyone can be a victim of this heinous act regardless of age or background.
There are many ways that people get involved in trafficking, but the result is the same and these human beings lose their rights, identity as they are used and abused.
Our Ministry is working hard towards identifying and fighting this crime, through coordinated efforts and working closely with our partners. This day also allows us to recognise the victims and hear their stories. Human trafficking reaches the core of society, and we are all affected in some way. I am hopeful that with more focus and effort allocated to investigation and prosecution, we can prevent further men, women and children from falling victim to human trafficking. Trafficking human beings is a billion-dollar industry that is ever evolving and Seychelles joins the world to say NO to this crime.
As the custodians of Law and Order, and the security and safety of the country, the immense responsibility that you carry is very much recognised and appreciated. I therefore thank you for your continued efforts on the occasion of Labour Day.
To the Police Officers who maintain the security of our people, to the Prison Officers and support staff who work towards the rehabilitation of inmates so they can positively re-integrate into society. To the team of the Immigration Department who deliver crucial services to the public and maintain border control, to the Disaster Risk Management team who are always planning ahead to ensure our safety. To the Firefighters, Search & Rescue Teams and Lifeguards who take incredible risks every time they respond to an emergency, the employees of the Regional Centres who ensure information sharing and that there is constant surveillance of our Exclusive Economic Zone, and to the Secretariat staff of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, who are truly the backbone of the Ministry, I thank you all.
I wish you all a very Happy Labour Day.