The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime released a new Toolkit to Combat Trafficking in Persons in October 2008. This document replaces a similar document issued in 2006. The goals of the Toolkit are to “prevent and combat trafficking, protect and assist its victims [and] promote international cooperation.” “The fact that trafficking in persons occurs today is a horrifying reality,” the introduction declares. “The fact that there is more we could be doing collectively to combat it should be a global call to arms. It is hoped that the guidance offered, the practice showcased and the resources recommended in this Toolkit may inspire and assist policymakers, law enforcers, judges, prosecutors, victim service providers and members of civil society in playing their role in the global effort against trafficking in persons.”
The 562-page document begins with an analysis of international law on human trafficking. It then discusses problems and strategies to resolve them, including the role of new legislation. Other topics include law enforcement and prosecution, victim identification, immigration, victim assistance, prevention of trafficking and monitoring.
The prevention piece includes links to the U.N. Recommended Principles and Guidelines and NGO handbooks. The Toolkit also examines root causes of trafficking, awareness-raising and the demand for trafficked persons.
Compiled from: Toolkit to Combat Trafficking in Persons, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Global Programme against Trafficking in Human Beings (2008). (PDF, 562 pages.)