ASEAN leaders adopts declaration on combating trafficking in persons

The declaration reiterates the need to promote a cohesive and immediate ASEAN response in addressing current and future threats arising from the abuse of technology and take full advantage of new and evolving technologies to enhance this effort.

Under the declaration, ASEAN nations strengthen cooperation and coordination against TIP caused by abuse of technology through various regional mechanisms and ASEAN initiatives.

They agreed to promote regional efforts to identify trafficked or potential victims, including through technology-based methods to prevent their criminalization and detention, subject to domestic laws, as well as to encourage the development of recommended identification guidelines at the national level.

Meanwhile, the leaders vow to conduct research, policy dialogue, and share knowledge on typologies and trends of the abuse of technology in TIP cases in the region to identify strategies and formulate policies and guidelines.

Furthermore, they agreed to enhance mutual legal assistance in TIP cases, including those caused by abuse of technology, through the effective implementation of the ASEAN Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters (AMLAT)./.