The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has strongly condemned untruthful remarks in the 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report released by the U.S. Department of State. On Tuesday, a spokesperson for the HKSAR government firmly opposed the claims, describing them as groundless and misleading.
“Trafficking in persons is not a prevalent problem in Hong Kong,” the spokesperson stated. “There is no indication that criminal syndicates are using Hong Kong as a destination or transit point for such activities.”
Addressing concerns about the absence of composite trafficking legislation, the spokesperson emphasized that Hong Kong’s current legal framework comprises over 50 provisions targeting various trafficking activities. “Our comprehensive package of safeguards is comparable to composite trafficking laws in other jurisdictions,” the spokesperson added.
Since 2018, the HKSAR government has implemented proactive and multifaceted measures to combat trafficking in persons. A high-level steering committee was established in March of that year to provide policy guidance and oversee efforts to protect vulnerable populations, including foreign domestic helpers.
By the end of 2019, an action plan with strategic and targeted measures was firmly in place. The plan covers multiple areas including victim identification, investigation, enforcement, prosecution, victim protection and support, prevention, and partnerships with stakeholders.
The HKSAR government reiterated its commitment to fighting trafficking in persons and called on the international community to acknowledge Hong Kong’s efforts and achievements in this area.
Reference(s):
HKSAR govt firmly opposes U.S. 'trafficking in persons' report claims
cgtn.com
