2021-09-18

  • International Law
  • Human Rights Law

International Cooperation As An Anti-trafficking Measure In Nigeria

Article by David Oluwagbami & Oluwakemi Omojola

Abstract

Human trafficking is one of the most dehumanizing forms of organized crime. It often has transnational characteristics. Nigeria is a centre of human trafficking. It is an origin, transit and destination country for trafficked persons. Global Slavery Index (2018) Report ranked Nigeria 32/167 of the countries with the highest number of victims. International cooperation in curbing this crime dates back to the early 1900 when agreements and conventions for the suppression of slavery, trafficking in women and children were put in place. Although Nigeria has a legal and institutional framework in place, there are indications that the country requires further cooperation with other countries to suppress human trafficking significantly. The need for further cooperation is reflected in the 2020 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, where Nigeria was downgraded from Tier 2 to Tier 2 Watch List. Using doctrinal research, this paper examines international cooperation as a vital plank in fighting the scourge of human trafficking effectively. The paper finds that despite progress made in recent times, more effort is required in international cooperation in the areas of law enforcement and prosecution in order to enhance the fight against human trafficking in Nigeria. The paper makes relevant recommendations to that effect.

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