Kara Eyrich
Adviser for the Third Committee
New York, New York
October 17, 2022
AS DELIVERED
Thank you. Trafficking in persons is a global crisis that the United States is committed to addressing domestically and abroad.
The Special Rapporteur notes that systemic discrimination, gender inequalities, climate-related displacement and migration, and climate-related disasters are among the root causes of trafficking in persons. The Biden-Harris Administration remains committed to addressing the disproportionate impact human trafficking has on Indigenous communities, members of racial and ethnic marginalized communities, women and girls, LGBTQI+ individuals, migrants, and members of other historically marginalized communities.
This year, the Biden-Harris Administration convened its first meeting of the President’s Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, reinforcing our whole-of-government approach to implement over 60 priority actions outlined in the National Action Plan to Combat Trafficking. The National Action Plan underscores the Administration’s commitment to addressing systemic injustices through the foundational pillars of U.S. and global anti-trafficking efforts: prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnerships.
Your report states that Indigenous communities are particularly affected by climate change and at an increased risk of exploitation as a result. What measures can be taken to prevent trafficking in these communities and protect survivors?
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