Siobhán Mullally, the UN Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, will visit Guinea-Bissau from November 4 to November 14, 2024, to assess the challenges related to trafficking, particularly among women and children. She will engage with various stakeholders and hold a press conference on November 14. Her findings will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in June 2025.
Siobhán Mullally, the Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons with a focus on women and children, is set to conduct a visit to Guinea-Bissau from November 4 to November 14, 2024. This visit will facilitate a thorough examination of the significant challenges facing the prevention of human trafficking and the safeguarding of human rights for victims within the country. Mullally aims to investigate the risks and prevalence of trafficking amid transitions and ongoing endeavors in post-conflict peacebuilding. Particular attention will be directed towards the trafficking of children, prevalent issues such as forced begging and child marriage, and the gender-specific factors relating to trafficking, particularly for sexual exploitation and forced labor. During her trip, which includes sites in Bissau, Bafata, Cambadju, and Gabú, Mullally will engage with a variety of stakeholders. These include representatives from the government, officials from the United Nations, law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, human rights defenders, survivors of trafficking, and international development partners. A pivotal aspect of the visit will be the press conference scheduled for 10:00 local time on November 14 at the Hotel Ceiba in Bissau, which will only be accessible to journalists. Subsequent to her visit, Mullally is expected to present her findings in a report to the United Nations Human Rights Council in June 2025.
Human trafficking remains a pervasive issue globally, affecting millions, with women and children being particularly vulnerable. Guinea-Bissau, situated in West Africa, has been noted for its challenges related to governance and stability, often leading to increased risks associated with human trafficking. The complexities related to poverty, economic instability, and social issues exacerbate the situation, making it critical for international bodies like the United Nations to assess and propose interventions that can help combat these human rights violations. The role of the Special Rapporteur includes not only evaluating the current state of trafficking but also engaging with various stakeholders to understand the full breadth of the crisis and to develop actionable policies for prevention and victim support.
In summary, the upcoming visit by Special Rapporteur Siobhán Mullally to Guinea-Bissau is a crucial step towards addressing the pressing issues of human trafficking, particularly among women and children. By engaging with local and international stakeholders, her efforts are expected to shed light on the complexities of trafficking in the region and to pave the way for significant recommendations that can enhance the protection of human rights and prevent further exploitation. The findings from her assessment are eagerly anticipated for their potential impact on global human rights discussions in the coming years.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
