March 13-15 | Port Louis: The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) successfully organized a three-day training program aimed at enhancing the capacity of frontline law enforcement officials in Mauritius in identification, investigation and prosecution of trafficking in persons (TiP) cases. The training took place at the United Docks Caudan, Port Louis, from 13 to 15 March 2024.

The Chief of Mission for IOM Mauritius and Seychelles, Ms. Alia Hirji, emphasized the significance of such training initiatives in combatting Trafficking in Persons (TiP) in Mauritius. Ms. Hirji stated, “it is our endeavor that you will be equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to identify victims, gather evidence, and prosecute perpetrators.” Shedding light on the current situation, the Chief of Mission added “in Mauritius, trafficking in persons presents distinctive challenges, cutting across various thematic areas, the recent 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report by the US Department of State classified Mauritius as Tier 2 (Watch List) country. While this classification highlights the challenges we face, it also acknowledges the significant efforts that Mauritius has been making regarding compliance to international standards. We must continue this positive trajectory, and I am convinced that with trainings such as this one alongside government commitment and efforts from all partners together we can bridge the gap, improve our response and push towards a new classification for Mauritius in 2024.”

The three-day training program brought together front-liners officers from various law enforcement entities, including the police, immigration, labour inspectorate, the Attorney General’s Office, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the prisons Service and other relevant ministries and departments. The training sessions were designed to cover key thematic areas crucial to combatting trafficking in persons, including international legal frameworks on transnational organized crimes, victim identification, investigation techniques, victim protection, a right-based approach to combatting trafficking and the prosecution of traffickers.

The capacity building training initiative was made possible with the support of the European Union (EU) funded Southern Africa Migration Management (SAMM) project. The SAMM project, jointly implemented by IOM, the International Labour Organization (ILO), UNODC and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), aims to improve migration management in the Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean region. The TiP training workshop organized under the SAMM project is a collaboration of the different UN agencies to address migration-related challenges comprehensively and effectively.

The training sessions included a combination of lectures, group work and discussions, providing participants with practical insights and tools to enhance their effectiveness in combatting trafficking in persons. Participants also had the opportunity to engage with experts and share best practices, contributing to a more holistic and coordinated approach to addressing TiP cases in Mauritius.

The successful completion of this three-day training program signifies a significant step forward in strengthening Mauritius’ efforts in combatting trafficking in persons and upholding human rights. It reflects the commitment of all stakeholders involved to work collaboratively towards a future free from exploitation and abuse.

For more information, please contact:

Chief of Mission: Alia Hirji |ahirji@iom.int |Tel: +230 210 4250
Communication: Simla Pertaub| spertaub@iom.int | Tel: +230 210 4250
Media: IOM Mauritius| iommauritius@iom.int | Tel: +230 210 4250
Social Media: IOM Mauritius & Seychelles | Facebook | LinkedIn
Website: https://www.iom.int/