Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 29 July, Tashkent hosted the international conference “Global Challenges in Combating Human Trafficking: The Role of Society and International Cooperation,” organized by the National Commission on Combating Human Trafficking and Promoting Decent Work together with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Migration Agency.

The event, timed to coincide with World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, brought together more than 110 participants, including representatives of government agencies, civil society institutions, academia, diplomatic missions, and international organizations.

Opening remarks were delivered by Alisher Agzamkhodjayev, Chair of the Senate Committee on International Relations, Foreign Economic Ties, Foreign Investments and Tourism; Ayubkhon Rakhmatullayev, First Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan; and Andrew Gray, Head of the IOM/UN Migration Agency Office in Uzbekistan.

Speakers emphasized that in the context of globalization, human trafficking poses a serious threat not only to individuals but also to society as a whole, with millions of victims each year. They highlighted Uzbekistan’s large-scale efforts in this area, including the adoption of a new version of the Law On Combating Human Trafficking, stricter penalties for crimes related to human trafficking, child labor, and forced labor; the introduction of a victim identification and referral system; and the approval of the National Concept and Roadmap on Combating Human Trafficking.

Special attention was given to the contribution of international organizations, especially the UN Migration Agency, in advancing reforms and initiatives in this field. Participants underscored the need to further develop mutually beneficial cooperation for the implementation of new projects.

The conference featured thematic sessions focusing on modern threats and trends in human trafficking, the role of international cooperation in addressing the issue, and the importance of civil society institutions in supporting victims.

Particular emphasis was placed on the impact of the digital environment in creating new forms of trafficking, as well as the importance of cross-border coordination and active involvement of non-governmental organizations in providing comprehensive assistance to victims.

The event served as a platform to exchange international best practices, review Uzbekistan’s national achievements, and outline priority tasks for the future.