Liberia’s Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force Highlights Progress

The Anti-Human Trafficking Joint Task Force of Liberia, on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, officially launched the Trafficking In Persons Annual Report for the period 2022/2023. 

During the report overview, Joint Task Force Chairman and Liberia’s Labour Minister, Cllr. Charles H. Gibson, conveyed that seven human trafficking cases had been tried. 

The Government of Liberia, represented by the Ministry of Labour, successfully won six of these cases, with one currently pending retrial. 

Cllr. Gibson emphasized that individuals found guilty of human trafficking would face a 20-year sentence, and the judge would also mandate the perpetrator to support the victim’s rehabilitation while serving their sentence.

Minister Gibson highlighted the Task Force’s efforts in securing funds for prosecution, mentioning that Montserrado County had a bill of US$5,000.00. However, due to insufficient funding, not all reported cases could proceed to trial. 

Minister Gibson further revealed that the administration had implemented Standing Order Number 3, prohibiting individuals, especially females, from traveling out of Liberia for external employment without proper documents or travel arrangements.

Additionally, Minister Gibson informed the audience about the establishment of three safe homes designed to shelter victims until they could be safely repatriated to their families. 

These safe homes received sponsorship from entities such as IMO, the US Embassy, and other organizations committed to combating human trafficking.

Chairman Gibson emphasized the legalization of external employment, stipulating that any entity or individual intending to hire a Liberian abroad must obtain a license and register with the Ministry of Labour. 

The Ministry‌ must be informed of the nature of the work, as well as the living conditions and salary details for the prospective employee. Minister Gibson underscored the importance of knowing the minimum wage in the country where the individual would be employed.

Meanwhile, initiatives of the Anti-human Trafficking Joint Task Force, as outlined by Minister Gibson, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to addressing and preventing human trafficking in Liberia. 

The measures include legal actions, financial support for prosecution, establishment of safe homes, and regulations governing external employment to ensure the protection and well-being of potential victims. 

The collaborative efforts with international organizations underscore the global commitment to eradicating human trafficking and safeguarding vulnerable individuals.