United Nations Radio

There's a call for UN member States to do more to ensure that effective mechanisms are available to protect and assist the victims of trafficking, prosecute the traffickers and boost prevention measures.

The call comes from General Assembly President Srgjan Kerim at the conclusion of a day-long debate on human trafficking.

He says give the breadth of the problem, it is imperative that every country stand firm against trafficking.

"It is clear from our deliberations that effective policy needs to be put into practice as a matter of urgency to fight sexual and labor exploitation. It needs to be comprehensive and include preventive and protective measures as well as stronger measures to end the traffickers impunity."

The General Assembly president says human trafficking is thriving because it's taking place against the backdrop of increased demand for cheap labor and service, particularly in the sex industry.

This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio.

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