Experts discuss rising threats of forced crimes and cyber fraud; Voice concerns over exploitation of vulnerable groups
LAHORE (ؑEducation reporter) The Institute of Social and Cultural Studies (ISCS) at the University of the Punjab organised an awareness seminar to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. The seminar, themed “Human Trafficking: Growing Threats of Forced Crimes and Cyber Fraud,” was held in collaboration with the Government of Punjab, CrossEdge, and the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO).
Notable Attendees:
The seminar was attended by Vice-Chancellor Punjab University Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali, former Provincial Health Minister Dr. Saeed Elahi, Additional Secretary Home and Focal Person Ayesha Mumtaz, Director ISCS Prof. Dr. Farhan Navid Yousaf, along with representatives from government and law enforcement agencies, civil society, media, the legal fraternity, and a large number of students.
Seminar Objectives and Key Highlights:
- Awareness and Sensitization: The main objective of the event was to raise awareness about the evolving nature of human trafficking, particularly the exploitation of vulnerable groups through forced crimes and cyber technologies.
- Vice-Chancellor’s Address: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali emphasised the need for effective collaboration among the government, law enforcement agencies, academic institutions, civil society, and the media to eradicate human trafficking and protect vulnerable segments of society.
- Government Initiatives: Additional Secretary Home Ayesha Mumtaz highlighted the steps and strategies being implemented by the Government of Punjab to prevent human trafficking.
- Legal and Administrative Aspects: FIA Assistant Director Investigation Syed Zain-ul-Abidin discussed the intersection of human trafficking and cyber-facilitated financial fraud. CrossEdge Chief Executive Barrister Harris Ramzan focused on the role of civil society in victim protection and rehabilitation.
- Role of Media and Legal Fraternity: Senior journalist Salman Abid highlighted the crucial role of the media in raising public awareness, while Ali Raza Khokhar, Finance Secretary of the Lahore High Court Bar Association, termed human trafficking a serious violation of fundamental human rights.
Concluding Remarks:
Prof. Dr. Farhan Navid Yousaf underscored the need to sensitise youth about new forms of human trafficking, especially exploitation via digital platforms and online fraud. The seminar concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening public awareness, digital literacy, institutional cooperation, victim protection, and effective legal measures.