26 June 2024

Australian Statement

Australia thanks the Special Rapporteur for her report.

Australia shares the Special Rapporteur’s concerns about the significant risks faced by victims of trafficking at sea.

Australia agrees with the Special Rapporteur’s call for coordinated action by States and maritime actors to prevent trafficking at sea. Australia is working closely with our partners to address the drivers of human trafficking and to help prevent this serious crime.

In partnership with Pacific Island Countries, we are increasing awareness of international labour standards and human rights in the maritime sector as they relate to modern slavery.

In Southeast Asia, through the TRIANGLE in ASEAN program, Australia and Canada are providing support to expand access to safe migration, to reduce the vulnerability of migrant workers to trafficking, including at sea.
Through the Bali Process on People Smuggling, Trafficking in Persons and Related Transnational Crime, Australia is working closely with our Co-Chair Indonesia, and other member states and organisations, to provide training and to drive capacity building for investigation and prosecution of these crimes.

Special Rapporteur, how can States and maritime actors better coordinate to strengthen effective prevention and accountability measures for trafficking at sea?