OSCE Special Representative, in address to UN General Assembly, says human rights of victims must be a priority in fight against trafficking

UNITED NATIONS, 31 August 2010 - The adoption of the UN Global Plan of Action against Trafficking in Persons should encourage States to redouble their efforts and resources to effectively and fully implement the UN Anti-trafficking Protocol and other international instruments to combat this crime, the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, Maria Grazia Giammarinaro, told the UN General Assembly today. 

Her address was part of a High-Level meeting of the UN General Assembly to formally launch the United Nations Global Plan of Action against Trafficking in Persons, and marks the first time an OSCE Special Representative for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings has addressed the UN General Assembly.

"The cornerstone of anti-trafficking policy is the protection of the human rights of trafficked persons," said Giammarinaro in an address delivered to the UN General Assembly.

"We need to ensure that victims receive immediate and unconditional assistance and support as soon as there is the slightest indication of trafficking. Furthermore, we need to improve the protection of victims' rights in legal proceedings, especially the right to compensation, to enable trafficked persons to regain ownership of their lives and to pursue their own objectives."

Giammarinaro called for support for a United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund for Victims of Trafficking in Persons, especially women and children, envisaged by the Action Plan, saying it was important to ensure that it brings direct benefit to trafficked persons.

She also called for improved social inclusion of trafficked persons, more focused and effective law enforcement and criminal justice action, and more innovative approaches to prevent trafficking in human beings.