VOV.VN - On the occasion of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (July 30), the British Embassy in Vietnam launched a campaign, joining global efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking and to urge more international actions to combat the problem.

Illustrative photo

The British Ambassador to Vietnam, Gareth Ward and ‪actress Bao Thanh were present at the launching event to unveil messages on tackling human trafficking, which will be displayed on a number of buses and bus stops in Hanoi in August.

The International Labour Organisation estimates that at least 21 million people are trapped in forced labour, many of whom are women and children. The serious organised criminal gangs involved target South East Asia and Vietnam.

Many of those exploited have used the services of labour recruitment agencies within South East Asia and Vietnam, and it is important that the Governments of these countries continue to strengthen governance and undertake active monitoring of labour recruitment to prevent unscrupulous recruitment practices, in addition to considering having regulations prohibiting the imposition of recruitment fees;  

The term “Modern Slavery”, which includes Human Trafficking, is where a person is controlled and exploited into a service against their will. It is now estimated to be the second largest criminal industry in the world, with a profit of US$150 billion per year.

Ambassador Gareth Ward said, “Awareness of the dangers of trafficking and modern slavery is rising but there is much more we need to do nationally and internationally to combat the problem. We need people to know the risks they are running in listening to the serious organised crime groups driving this trade. We need governments to step up efforts to catch and prosecute the gangs and we need to protect and support the victims”. 

Actress Bao Thanh said, “The trade in people exploits some of the most needy and vulnerable in Vietnam. People are promised a new life but the reality is often very different. Don’t leave your loved ones vulnerable to these gangs”.

The UK government is one of many countries and international organisations working in Vietnam and with the Government of Vietnam to combat the trafficking of people and modern slavery. 

On September 19, 2017, the Call to Action to End Forced Labour, Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking was launched during the 72nd Meeting of the UN General Assembly. Over 80 countries have signed the call to action.