Cambodia, Singapore ratify ASEAN Convention Against Trafficking in Persons
MANILA – Cambodia and Singapore have deposited their respective instruments of ratification for the ASEAN Convention Against Trafficking in Persons (ACTIP) with ASEAN Secretary General Le Luong Minh, it was learned.
ACTIP, which was signed by the ASEAN Leaders at the 27th ASEAN Summit in November 2015, showcases the bloc’s commitment in addressing human trafficking as a regional problem and its resolve to find the most effective regional solution to combat it.
ACTIP, which is the first regionally binding instrument on trafficking in persons aims to prevent and combat trafficking in persons, especially women and children, and ensure just and effective punishment of traffickers; protect and assist victims of trafficking in persons with full respect for their human rights; and promote cooperation in the fight against trafficking in persons among the ASEAN member states.
ASEAN groups together Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
“Singapore has underscored its strong commitment to cooperate with our regional partners to jointly tackle trafficking in persons by being one of the first ASEAN member states to ratify the ACTIP,” said Singapore Ambassador to ASEAN Tan Hung Seng on depositing the country’s instrument of ratification to the ASEAN secretary general.
“Trafficking in persons is a transnational issue that requires a global effort by all countries – whether source, transit, or destination – to break the vicious cycle of human trafficking,” Tan said. “Singapore also works closely with international partners such as Interpol, UNODC, and Group of Friends against TIP, to tackle the issue at the global level.”
For his part, ASEAN Secretary General Minh said the implementation of ACTIP would serve as the legal basis for ASEAN member states when facing security challenges related to human trafficking.
Minh also looked forward to the early ratification of ACTIP by the other ASEAN member states so that the Convention can enter into force and be implemented as soon as possible.
ACTIP will take effect in 30 days after the sixth ASEAN member state deposits the instrument of ratification.
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