African Lawmakers to Address Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration at 5th AEWID
Leading African lawmakers are set to convene for the 5th African Elders and Women Intercultural Dialogue (AEWID) to discuss the critical issues of human trafficking and irregular migration. The dialogue, which coincides with the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (July 30), aims to explore the multifaceted challenges and develop culturally sensitive solutions to these pressing problems across the continent.
About the 5th African Elders and Women Intercultural Dialogue (AEWID):
Dates and Venues: The 5th AEWID is scheduled to take place from July 30 to August 1, 2025, with events at the British Council Auditorium on July 30, Silverbird Cinema Accra Mall on July 31, and the main dialogue at the Africa Trade House (AFCFTA Secretariat) in Accra, Ghana.
Theme: This year's edition of AEWID is themed "Born Free: Exploring the Economic, Cultural, Social, and Political Intricacies Sponsoring Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling in Today's Africa." This theme underscores the event's commitment to understanding the deep-rooted causes of these issues.
Participants: Over 400 participants from more than ten African countries are expected, including diplomats, cultural experts, international development agencies, youth leaders, NGO executives, and survivors of trafficking. Five prominent Nigerian lawmakers are also slated to attend.
Organizers and Support: AEWID is an advocacy event focused on the cultural re-visioning and well-being of African girls, women, and youth in post-colonial Africa. It is supported by major organizations such as UNESCO Ghana, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the African Women Development Fund (AWDF), and UN Women Nigeria.
Focus on Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration:
Understanding the Root Causes: The dialogue will delve into the economic, cultural, social, and political factors that contribute to human trafficking and migrant smuggling. Poverty, lack of opportunities, conflict, political instability, and restrictive migration policies are widely recognized as key drivers.
Vulnerability of Migrants: Irregular migrants are particularly vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, and human trafficking. Criminal organizations exploit their desire for a better life, often leading them into forced labor, sexual exploitation, forced criminality, or even organ harvesting.
Distinction and Linkages: While human trafficking and migrant smuggling are distinct crimes, they are often interconnected. Migrants who initially seek smugglers for illegal entry can easily fall victim to traffickers during their journey.
Gender and Age Disparities: Data indicates that women and girls are disproportionately affected by human trafficking, especially for sexual exploitation and forced marriages. Children are also highly vulnerable, with a significant percentage of detected victims being minors, particularly young girls.
Call for Rights-Based Approaches: Discussions will emphasize the need for comprehensive, rights-based approaches that address the root causes of irregular migration, create safe and legal pathways, and ensure protection and support for victims.
Role of Lawmakers: The presence of lawmakers at AEWID highlights the critical role of legislation and policy development in combating these crimes. Discussions will likely cover strengthening domestic laws, enhancing cross-border cooperation, and implementing victim-centered approaches to justice and support.
The AEWID serves as an important platform for African leaders and stakeholders to foster dialogue, share experiences, and develop coordinated strategies to combat human trafficking and irregular migration, which continue to devastate lives and undermine stability across the continent.
