The launch of the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) Framework to protect and assist victims of human trafficking is a commendable initiative. It has been learnt that NRM is a dynamic system that involves a multidisciplinary group of government and non-governmental actors guided by protocols, tools, guidelines, and principles. It will be implemented under the direct management of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Authority, with the leadership of the Public Security Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs. A Switzerland government-supported project, Ashshash has provided technical assistance in preparing the Framework.
Human trafficking is a global crime that trades in people and exploits them for profit. People of all genders, ages and backgrounds can become victim of this crime, which occurs in every region of the world. Traffickers use violence, fraudulent employment agencies, and fake promises of education and job opportunities to trick, coerce and deceive their victims. The organised networks or individuals behind this crime take advantage of people who are vulnerable, desperate or simply seeking a better life. Broadly, human trafficking is behind three common types of crimes---sex trade, forced labour, and domestic servitude. Bangladesh is a source of all the three types of human abuse. While exploitation of the victims---both males and females---in the name of providing jobs abroad has been a common practice, tricking them into the scheme of the trafficking network has also grown over the decades. Add to this, the increasing trafficking within the country, the picture looks grim.
It is widely recognised that individuals subjected to human trafficking need assistance and protection. In Bangladesh, the Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking Act, 2012, is basically intended to combat human trafficking through various inter-agency engagements and the establishment of special tribunals. The latest move to protect victims under a comprehensive framework emphasises the need for social and economic reintegration and empowerment of these ill-fated individuals. Experience from government organisations and NGOs over the last two decades has highlighted the crucial need for an inclusive one-stop-service mechanism to effectively deliver, follow up, and monitor protection and care services for trafficking victims. The Ashshash project, supported by Swiss funding and implemented by the Winrock International, will collaborate with all relevant government and non-government agencies throughout the project's implementation process, according to a statement issued in connection with the framework's launch.
Understandably, the framework will be in conformity with the standard global practices. However, the peculiarities stemming from country-specific needs should also be addressed. It is here that collaboration of local government and the NGOs will play an important role to make it suitable for the needs of the victims. To ensure effectiveness of the NRM Framework, there is an overriding need for involving community-based organisations and grassroots groups in the process. These groups are often the first to encounter victims and can provide immediate support and protection. Building strong networks at the local level will facilitate better identification of trafficking cases, more efficient referrals, and sustained support for victims. Additionally, continuous training and capacity-building programmes for law enforcement, social workers, and healthcare providers are essential.
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