Fiji calls for united front against human trafficking

Local and regional authorities are calling for urgent and coordinated action to tackle the growing threat of trafficking syndicates, warning that current responses are inadequate.

"While well-intentioned, they remain fragmented and reactive, often falling short of the scale and coordination that trafficking networks employ," said Permanent Secretary for Immigration, Aliki Salusalu, during a panel discussion held on Wednesday to mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.

"It is clear that no single country or agency can combat this crime alone and in isolation."

Mr Salusalu, who was appointed to the role in May, stressed the need for sustained cross-border collaboration, enhanced cooperation between sectors, and greater institutional coordination to dismantle these criminal networks.

He also called for increased international support, more resources for law enforcement, and a response that prioritises the needs of victims and survivors.

Fiji is not alone in facing the dual challenge of human trafficking and illicit drug smuggling. The United States, under successive administrations, has committed to halting the flow of narcotics and trafficked persons across its borders.

International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Chief of Mission and Pacific Sub-Regional Coordinator Solomon Kantha said there was an opportunity to deepen cooperation with the U.S. in combating these transnational crimes.

"The US Government is very keen to work closely with organisations like us and the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime, so I'm confident we can all work together on this issue," he said.

Persons with disabilities at risk

Persons with disabilities are at a higher risk of being targeted by traffickers, but local authorities fear they are being left behind in the fight against human trafficking.  

"Persons with disability are vulnerable to trafficking," said Mr Kantha. 

"In some countries, you find persons with disabilities begging on the streets to get money and give it to the person who's exploiting them. In other cases, people get into that situation of disability after being trafficked or when they're being exploited. 

"It can be an indicator of trafficking."

Mr Kantha said efforts are underway to support Fiji's capacity to enhance the identification and reporting of human trafficking victims.

The 2021 disappearance of a child with disabilities in Taveuni is one local example that has sparked fears of the involvement of human trafficking. 

The case remains unsolved. 

Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said initial investigations had "explored all possible avenues" and would continue under the Cold Case unit.

"We cannot speculate on whether the child's medical condition was a contributing factor to his disappearance," Mr Tudravu said, adding that he expects to receive an update from investigators. 

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