This Joint Statement reaffirms, among others, the global commitment to protect children, including those in crisis contexts, from trafficking in persons. The Statement recognizes child trafficking as a serious crime, a violation of children's rights, and a form of violence against them. ICAT further calls on States to implement sustained and coordinated efforts to support and protect children, to realize their rights, and to ensure children's safety and well-being.

Read the Joint Statement in English or Spanish.

In 2023, ICAT made important progress under the co-chairpersonship of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Children (OSRSG-VAC).

Read the ICAT Chairs' Annual Report 2023 to learn more about the achievements and progress made in 2023.

On the World Day against Trafficking in Persons 2024, the Inter-Agency Coordination Group against Trafficking in Persons (ICAT) statement reiterates its call to States and relevant stakeholders to accelerate efforts to prevent and end child trafficking and, in line with the theme of the World Day 2024, ensure that no child is left behind in the fight against human trafficking.

Click here to read the ICAT Joint Statement.

The financial sector plays a crucial role in countering trafficking in persons. Investors’ attention on human rights has increased over the years. It is integral that financial sector actors do not only ensure that they are not causing, contributing or directly linked to human trafficking by business relationships, but that they proactively contribute to a higher standard of living for groups at heightened risk of vulnerability, which would contribute to vulnerability reduction and reduce the risk of (re)trafficking. This Issue Paper discusses how sustainable finance can be harnessed to prevent and address trafficking. It further provides recommendations on how to leverage sustainable finance to counter human trafficking.

Click here to read the latest ICAT issue Paper on Sustainable Finance.

Child trafficking is one of the worst forms of violence against children, and a serious global concern that requires urgent response. On 8 November 2023, the Principals of Inter-Agency Coordination Group against Trafficking in Persons (ICAT) released a Call to Action persuading States, businesses, and financial sectors, to consolidate their efforts in countering child trafficking with child protection as a top priority.

Click here to read the Call to Action.