Youth network launched to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling

A university-level youth network comprising approximately 150 students from both public and private universities has been launched on 2 May 2026 to strengthen awareness and collective action against Trafficking in Persons (TIP) and Smuggling of Migrants (SOM) in Bangladesh. The initiative is led by the Ministry of Home Affairs, in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and in collaboration with Eastern University. It is part of a regional programme funded by the European Union (EU) on Preventing and Addressing Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants.

In her speech, the Chief Guest Ms. Rebeka Khan, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, underscored the critical role of youth engagement in combating these crimes. She further emphasised that today’s students are the future judges, prosecutors, and policymakers, and that equipping them with the right knowledge and values is essential for strengthening the rule of law. In addition, Mr. Marcus Pias, Law Enforcement Advisor at UNODC, highlighted the importance of such initiatives in enhancing students’ understanding of the complexities of trafficking and migrant smuggling. Furthermore, the Vice Chancellor of Eastern University emphasised the importance of strong partnerships between academia, government institutions, UN agencies, and development partners, noting that collaborative approaches are key to achieving sustainable progress.

The workshop also included sessions on national and international legal frameworks of TIP and SOM, with a focus on victim-centred approaches, delivered by Ms. Tasneem Binta Karim, National Programme Coordinator at UNODC Bangladesh. Moreover, a practical session was conducted by Additional Superintendent of Police Mustafizur Rahman from the Trafficking in Human Beings (THB) Cell of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Finally, Mr. ABM Imdadul Haque Khan, Dean, School of Law, Eastern University highlighted the evolving legal framework in Bangladesh, including the newly promulgated Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking and Smuggling (PSHTMS) 2026.

Bringing together a diverse group of participants, including students, academics, law enforcement officials, and policymakers, the event facilitated  a platform for knowledge exchange on TIP and SOM as forms of transnational organised crime.

This initiative marks an important step in building a proactive youth network committed to preventing human trafficking and migrant smuggling. As ambassadors within their institutions and communities, these students are expected to play a key role in raising awareness and supporting prevention efforts.

Written by Tasneem Binte Karim, National Programme Coordinator, UNODC.