Azerbaijan , Baku, Sept. 27 / Trend , G.Dadashova /
Ways to prevent the trafficking of children from orphanages and special schools was the topic of an OSCE-organized discussion held in Astana today, the OSCE reported.
The event aimed to raise awareness among relevant government agencies on how to improve the protection of particularly vulnerable children, such as those in orphanages and mentally disabled children. Such children often face difficulties in accessing child protection and social welfare systems and can be deprived of basic rights, such as protection from abuse or exploitation.
"Victims of human trafficking require comprehensive assistance and support," Deputy Justice Minister Dulat Kustavletov said. "This requires close interagency and government-civil society co-operation and co-ordination. The Interagency Commission on combating trafficking in human beings under the Ministry of Justice coordinates activities on prevention of trafficking in human beings among government bodies, civil society organizations and international actors, and we support this initiative to further enhance our efforts to protect children."
Head of the OSCE Centre in Astana said Ambassador Alexandre Keltchewsky said it is important to create a protective environment to prevent trafficking of children and reduce children's vulnerability. "That is why the OSCE is assisting in strengthening the capacity of state actors, including educational and social services, to address the problem of human trafficking within their scope of responsibilities," Keltchewsky said.
The meeting completes an OSCE-supported project to increase the awareness of social workers, psychologists and teachers about trafficking prevention strategies.