UN Warns of Rising Human Trafficking Threats in Afghanistan

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have issued a joint statement warning of an escalating human trafficking risk in Afghanistan. They identified poverty, the returning of migrants, reductions in humanitarian aid, and restrictions imposed on women and girls as key factors contributing to the increased vulnerability of the Afghan population.

Factors Increasing Human Trafficking Risk

In their statement, the organizations noted that the large-scale return of migrants from neighboring countries, the weakening of rural economies, severe cuts in humanitarian assistance, natural disasters, and restrictions on women’s and girls’ rights have heightened the vulnerability of Afghan citizens to human trafficking and various forms of exploitation.

The two agencies emphasized that the continuation of such conditions further exacerbates the risk of abuse against those in need.

Over Half of Returning Families Face Economic Hardship

According to findings published in the statement, 56 percent of families returning to Afghanistan are unable to meet their basic living needs.

These organizations noted that economic difficulties and increasing financial pressures have put many families at risk of exploitation and abuse.

Warning About Different Forms of Exploitation

The joint statement highlighted that victims facing financial pressure may be driven into unsafe and forced labor, sexual exploitation, conditions akin to slavery, and even forced organ harvesting.

The organizations stressed that such instances represent serious cases of human trafficking that require immediate preventive and responsive measures.

Women, Children, and Returnees at Highest Risk

The UNODC and IOM have announced that women, children, returning migrants, and indebted families are at a higher risk of human trafficking and exploitation compared to other groups.

They called upon the global community and responsible institutions to strengthen supportive programs, raise public awareness, and expand international cooperation to prevent the proliferation of human trafficking in Afghanistan.