DSD Commits To Child Protection On World Day Against Trafficking In Persons

The Department of Social Development (DSD) reaffirmed its commitment to fight human trafficking with a special focus on protecting children, as the world marked World Day Against Trafficking in Persons every year on July 30.

This year's theme revolves around ensuring no child is left behind in the fight against human trafficking. The department reminded South Africans, especially caregivers, about the ongoing issue of human trafficking and urged them to stay alert in protecting children.

According to a report issued last year by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), around 250,000 people might have been victims of human trafficking in South Africa.

"This serves as a grave violation of human rights and dignity. On this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Department of Social Development stands united against this heinous crime," the department said, SA News reported.

It added, "In addition to conflicts, pandemics, economic hardships, and environmental challenges, the proliferation of online platforms poses risks as children often connect to these sites without adequate protection."

The department noted that children make up a large number of trafficking victims worldwide, with girls being especially affected. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime's report, children are twice as likely to experience violence during trafficking compared to adults.

It also notes that Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa and the Caribbean account for 60% of identified trafficking victims. Furthermore, the department explained that traffickers use online platforms, social media and the dark web to recruit and exploit children.

They also use technology to avoid detection, reach more people and spread harmful content. Countries like South Africa need to focus on protecting children, strengthening laws, improving law enforcement and increasing resources to fight child trafficking.

Moreover, the department mentioned that South Africa is a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking, involving men, women and children.

This means South Africans are trafficked to other countries while South Africa is also used by traffickers to hide victims who are being moved to other countries for exploitation. Additionally, trafficking victims are brought into South Africa to be exploited.

The Public Service Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya earlier this month said corrupt officials in the country might collaborate with criminal networks to smuggle illegal goods and enable human trafficking in exchange for bribes.