On Monday, 2 December 2024, a meeting took place at the Permanent Mission of the Gambia to the United Nations in Geneva to address the pressing issue of human trafficking. The gathering included H.E. Ambassador Muhammadou M.O. KAH, Permanent Representative of the Gambia to the UN in Geneva; Cherno Marenah, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Gambia; H.E. Michel Veuthey, Ambassador of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta to monitor and combat trafficking in persons; Kevin Hyland OBE, the UK Government’s first Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner (2014–2018) and Chief Executive of PRAEVENI GLOBAL; and H.E. Archbishop Marcelo Sánchez Sorondo, Chancellor Emeritus of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, Vatican City.

The discussions focused on the pervasive challenge of human trafficking and the urgent need for collaborative action to address its root causes and consequences. Participants highlighted the importance of formulating actionable strategies to counter this modern scourge, emphasizing the need for stronger international cooperation, victim support mechanisms, and robust legal frameworks.

As a result of the meeting, participants underscored the importance of partnerships among governments, international organizations, faith-based entities, and civil society to create sustainable solutions. The gathering reaffirmed their shared commitment to advocating for the dignity and freedom of every individual, ensuring that the fight against human trafficking remains a top priority on the international stage.

This meeting not only strengthened bilateral and multilateral partnerships but also showcased the global determination to eradicate human trafficking and uphold human dignity.