By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A human rights expert with the United Nations, Maria Grazia Giammarinaro, has conducted a survey to assess the issue of trafficking in persons in Nigeria.
The UN Special Rapporteur was in the country for an official visit from September 3-10, 2018.
During the assessment, she met with relevant stakeholders to discuss various forms and manifestations of trafficking in persons and key human rights concerns and challenges, as well as progress made, in addressing trafficking in persons for the purpose of sexual, labour or any other form of exploitation.”
According to her, particular attention was paid to key issues and challenges in the implementation of international and legal frameworks on trafficking in persons, especially women and children.
She also examined measures taken or to be taken in terms of prevention of trafficking in persons, identification and protection of victims, prosecution and punishment of perpetrators as well as access to justice and social inclusion for survivors.
A statement from the UN disclosed that Ms Giammarinaro met representatives of government agencies, as well as UN officials and members of civil society organisations, especially those working in the field of prevention and victim support, during her visit to Abuja, Lagos and Benin City.
Findings from the country visit and recommendations will be included in an official report to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in June 2019.
