Dhaka: The International Organization for Migration (IOM-UN Migration) and the Economic Relations Division (ERD) of the Ministry of Finance of Bangladesh have jointly launched a 24-month initiative aimed at combating human trafficking facilitated by digital technologies. The project, titled "Countering Cyber-Enabled Human Trafficking Through Technology," is funded by the IOM Development Fund and will be implemented by IOM Bangladesh in partnership with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the project focuses on supporting Bangladesh's ongoing efforts to prevent and respond to cyber-enabled human trafficking. The initiative is designed to contribute to the development of future policies and programs, as well as to strengthen national and inter-agency efforts to combat trafficking. A key aspect of the project involves addressing the growing concerns regarding the use of social media, online platforms, job portals, and other digital technologies by traffickers to exploit individuals.
The project will concentrate on three primary areas: building evidence and knowledge, enhancing law enforcement capabilities, and improving digital literacy within communities. The agreement for this initiative was signed by Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, secretary of ERD, and Dr. Laura Tomm Bonde, chief of mission of IOM Bangladesh. The signing ceremony was attended by AKM Sohel, additional secretary and wing chief of UN Wing, ERD, along with representatives from relevant government agencies, including the Ministry of Home Affairs and IOM.
Dr. Laura Tomm Bonde highlighted the dual role of technology in modern society, stating, "Technology is transforming the way people communicate, seek employment, and connect with opportunities, but it can also be exploited by traffickers." She emphasized that the project aims to strengthen evidence, skills, and community awareness to ensure technology becomes part of the solution rather than a tool for exploitation.
Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky reiterated the project's significance, noting that it will aid the Government of Bangladesh's efforts to prevent technology misuse for human trafficking. He emphasized the project's goal to empower government stakeholders and communities to take informed action in preventing, responding to, and mitigating the risks associated with cyber-enabled human trafficking.