University students learn about human trafficking at United Nations in Vienna
2 October 2009 - Yesterday, the United Nations Office at Vienna hosted the first ever Webster University-led symposium on human trafficking. The symposium served as a platform for dialogue on the complex phenomenon that is human trafficking. The one-day symposium also aimed to discuss ways in which victims of trafficking can be identified and protected, by examining best and worst practices.
Many known experts attended the symposium and spoke of a wide range of topics. Doris Buddenberg of the Global Initiative to Fight Human Trafficking (UN.GIFT) kicked off the session with some touching opening remarks. Then, Andreas Halback of the International Organization for Migration and Riikka Puttonen of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime tackled the issue of smuggling of migrants, while Blanca Tapia of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) spoke about the role of the media.
The one-day symposium, at which many more topics were covered, also aimed at engaging with young professionals to prepare them for the future. "Addressing young people and preparing them for the future by increasing their understanding of this complex issue is an essential task in fighting human trafficking", said Helga Konrad, a consultant and former OSCE Special Representative on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings. "We've learned over the years how to manage human trafficking, but now we must combat it", she added.
To curb this crime, "the issue must be a priority on political agenda", admitted Anneliese Rohrer, a journalist and co-producer of the
recently launched documentary
Fatal Promises.
During the event, students asked questions, viewed videos and participated in debates. "The symposium was a great learning experience for me", explained one student.
The session concluded when Gregory Weeks, Head of International Relations at Webster University, thanked the students for wanting to make a difference and do something about the fact that unfortunately human trafficking is a growing market. He also thanked UN.GIFT for organizing such a valuable opportunity for dialogue.