Conference on raising awareness of human trafficking for the purpose of forced criminality in scam centers (Photo: Kim Lieu) |
At a Hanoi conference aimed at raising awareness of human trafficking for the purpose of forced criminality in scam centers, Deputy FM Hang said Vietnam is actively implementing the 2024 Law on Prevention and Control of Human Trafficking and the Program for Human Trafficking Prevention and Control through 2030, with a vision to 2035.
She called for global cooperation to combat this type of crime. "Given the more complex developments and the emergence of new forms of trafficking crimes linked to technology and cyberspace, strengthening information sharing and coordinating investigations to identify, support, and protect victims—while raising community awareness—are key factors in effectively responding to this type of crime." Hang said.
“Vietnam stands ready to increase international cooperation with countries, international organizations, and relevant partners to prevent, detect, and handle human trafficking crimes. We look forward to working together to support and protect victims based on a victim-centered approach,” she added.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang delivers the opening speech at the conference. (Photo: Kim Lieu) |
Jointly held by the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the conference brought together 140 delegates, including ambassadors, heads of representative offices, and leaders of diplomatic missions and international organizations in Vietnam.
Pauline Tamesis, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Vietnam, underlined the need for closer cooperation with tech companies and online platforms—where services are often exploited by traffickers to deceive and recruit victims.
"The #TrappedInScamCrime, the campaign embodies a survivor-centered approach, as also emphasized by Her Excellency Madam Le Thi Thu Hang. Campaign materials, available in nine languages including Vietnamese and English, will reach people where they are: on social media, at airports and border crossings, in schools and universities, and through trusted community actors,” according to Pauline.
“Prevention also requires strengthened cooperation with technology companies and online platforms, whose services are often misused by traffickers for fraudulent recruitment. This campaign is about empowerment, prevention, and solidarity. It is about equipping individuals and families with clear information, helping communities recognize warning signs, and reaffirming our shared commitment to protect human rights."
Pauline Tamesis, the UN Resident Coordinator in Vietnam (Photo: Kim Lieu) |
John McIntyre, Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Vietnam, said, "As we launch this campaign today, let us remember that our work is ultimately about people. Every person—every person we prevent from being exploited, every victim we remove from these compounds, every survivor we support. These are not just statistics. These are lives saved, families reunited, and futures restored.”
“The United States stands ready to continue working alongside the Government of Vietnam, UNODC, IJM, and all of our regional partners to achieve these goals. Together, we can raise awareness, strengthen prevention, improve law enforcement cooperation, and support survivors. Together, we can make a difference," said John.
UNODC’s #TrappedInScamCrime campaign in Vietnam was officially launched at the conference.