The event served as a platform to introduce the RSO’s Assessment of Bali Process Member States’ National Legal Frameworks implementing the Palermo Protocol to Prevent, Suppress, and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children. Furthermore, the webinar delved into current Trafficking in Persons trends across the Asia Pacific region.

Representatives and officials who attended the webinar learned about the rationale of the Assessment, specifically to; design relevant and effective policy dialogue, undertake relevant and actionable research, develop fit-for-purpose capacity building for law enforcement, border officers and relevant duty bearers, and relevant practical tools for frontline officers to prevent, detect, and disrupt trafficking in persons.   

In the 24 years since the Palermo Protocol’s adoption, 33 Bali Process Member States have either ratified or acceded to it. However, the landscape has evolved significantly due to technological advancements and increased globalisation. These changes have allowed transnational organised criminal networks to exploit vulnerable individuals and expand trafficking activities. While ratifying the Palermo Protocol is crucial, its domestication in national legal frameworks is equally vital for effective implementation of member states’ commitment to prevent and respond to Trafficking in Persons. 

Recognising this need, the RSO developed an assessment tool to understand how Bali Process Member States have implemented the Protocol. This assessment aims to identify best practices, existing gaps, and implementation challenges. The insights gained from these assessments will inform the RSO’s strategies to help member states enhance their capabilities in detecting, preventing, and responding to Trafficking in Persons. 

Following opening remarks from David Scott—Australian Co-Manager of the RSO, Saskia Kok—Head of Protection at the International Organization for Migration – Thailand, spoke on the concerning rise of trafficking for forced criminal activities in the region, citing a staggering 1,000% increase in trafficking for forced labour, including forced criminality, since 2022. 

Dr Julia Muraszkiewicz, RSO Consultant, elaborated on technology’s impact on Trafficking in Persons. She highlighted, “You will often hear that technology is a double-edged sword: It can aid traffickers, but, importantly, it can also empower our efforts to combat human trafficking. Particularly as we see the increase in artificial intelligence. Indeed, there are some incredible solutions where technology can be used for good and to leverage survivors’ voices in the fight against crime.” 

The webinar also featured a presentation by Sally Escutin—Countering Trafficking in Persons Programme Manager at the RSO, and Dr Muraszkiewicz, who answered questions regarding the assessment tool.  

The RSO eagerly awaits the assessment results, anticipating that they will guide the RSO in crafting tailored support for Bali Process Member States in strengthening their policy responses and designing capacity-building initiatives to more effectively counter Trafficking in Persons.