Islamabad : The Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi has emphasised the vital role of media in eradicating Trafficking in Persons (TIP) and the Smuggling of Migrants (SOM). He said that accurate reporting, informed by legal knowledge, serves as a guiding light for the government. He expressed these views while addressing an interactive session with journalists on media reporting in Trafficking in Persons (TIP), Smuggling of Migrants (SOM) and bonded labour in Pakistan organized by the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO).

On this occasion, Executive Director of SSDO, Syed Kausar Abbas, expressed his gratitude to Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi attending the event. He highlighted the growing concern of Trafficking in persons (TIP) and bonded labour in Pakistan. Syed Kausar Abbas stressed that to tackle these issues, media and law enforcement agencies must collaborate with a solid strategy. He added that it is very important to fully implement the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act, 2018 to counter this challenge.

During the session, journalists were briefed on national and international laws related to trafficking in persons (TIP). Syed Kausar Abbas informed the participants that trafficking in persons in Pakistan occurs in two forms, internal trafficking within the country and cross-border trafficking. He said that children under the age of 18 are most vulnerable with child labour and exploitation in commercial sex being widespread. Both, men and women, as well as children and transgender community members are victims of this exploitation.

Kausar Abbas elaborated on the efforts of law enforcement agencies such as the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Police, Labour departments and child protection institutes that are working against human trafficking. The Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act, 2018 stipulates that those convicted of human trafficking could face up to seven years in prison, fines up to 1 million rupees, or both. He also explained that the police handle cases of internal trafficking with in the country, while the FIA is responsible for investigating cross-border trafficking.

Addressing the session, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said that media reports on Trafficking in Persons (TIP) and the Smuggling of Migrants (SOM) play a critical role in shaping national policies and improving society. “Accurate reporting, based on factual information and current laws, can support the government’s efforts in dismantling trafficking networks,” he said.

The Governor further stressed the importance of protecting the identities and dignity of victims when reporting on these sensitive issues. He encouraged media professionals to evaluate the actions of law enforcement agencies within the framework of the law to improve their effectiveness. He also said that the media can serve as a bridge between victims and governmental and non-governmental organizations that provide legal aid.

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