IPNEWS: A UN expert has urged Liberia to prioritize the prevention of trafficking in persons, particularly focusing on labor and sexual exploitation that disproportionately affects women and girls. In a statement concluding her 10-day visit to the country, Siobhán Mullally, the Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, emphasized the critical need for concerted efforts across multiple sectors, including justice, child protection, labor, and health, to combat trafficking.
Mullally recognized the ongoing development of Liberia’s National Action Plan to combat trafficking and the upcoming phases of the National Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. She encouraged the government and relevant stakeholders to integrate anti-trafficking measures into the broader development agenda, highlighting the importance of child protection, social services, education, healthcare, and the empowerment of women and girls.
The expert also noted the severe lack of assistance and protection services for trafficking victims, especially in rural areas and at border crossings. She called for the urgent expansion of safe homes and child protection measures, particularly in regions where women and girls in mining, concession areas, and street situations are at high risk of trafficking.
Mullally stressed the need for anti-trafficking initiatives to be community-led and inclusive, ensuring that persons with disabilities are considered and accessible services are provided. She highlighted that many women and girls are trafficked for sexual exploitation and forced labor in high-risk sectors like domestic work, agriculture, and illicit mining. Additionally, she pointed out the high risk of trafficking within supply chains, such as fisheries, which suffer from inadequate enforcement and inspection capacities.
The Special Rapporteur also emphasized the importance of improving inter-agency coordination and providing the necessary financial and technical support to the national anti-trafficking taskforce. She commended Liberia for its commitment to anti-corruption and accountability, particularly through the establishment of the Office of the War and Economic Crimes Court and the strengthened mandate of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission.
Mullally called for effective investigations and access to justice for victims, along with robust victim and witness protection measures. A full report on her visit will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in June 2025.
