Tehran – January 21, 2025
A delegation led by Ms. Lalini Veerassamy, Chief of Mission of IOM Iran, delivered a presentation to the ECO Secretary General on the IOM-ECO Collaboration on “Counter-Trafficking and Smuggling: Addressing Mixed Migration Flows along Migration Routes in the ECO Region.” The presentation underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing human trafficking (THB) and smuggling of migrants (SOM) through innovative approaches such as live simulation exercises and capacity-building initiatives.
The presentation built on the outcomes of the July 2024 ECO-IOM Workshop in Tehran, which identified key challenges, including digital exploitation, low detection rates, legislative gaps, and inadequate protective measures for vulnerable populations. It emphasized the need for unified legal frameworks, enhanced victim assistance, and strengthened regional partnerships. The proposed live simulation exercises will provide a risk-free, interactive learning environment for approximately 200 participants from diverse sectors, enhancing their capacity to manage mixed migration flows while combating THB and SOM.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment by ECO and IOM to enhance regional collaboration, mobilize resources, and harmonize efforts to combat TIP and HS effectively.
