Human trafficking is one of the gravest forms of human rights violation and constitutes a transnational crime being combated by countries around the world, as it severely undermines and destroys the development of humanity as a whole and human dignity.
Under the supervision of the Central Body for Suppression of Trafficking in Persons, harmonious efforts must be made across the four operational pillars of Myanmar’s Fourth Five-Year National Plan to Combat Trafficking in Persons (2022-2026), which comprise: 23 action items under the Policy and Cooperation sector, 16 action items under the Prevention sector, 20 action items under the Prosecution sector, and 25 action items under the Protection sector. As such, cases of trafficking in persons for forced marriage to neighbouring countries, forced prostitution, forced labour, other forms of sexual exploitation, and the removal of human organs, among others, have been uncovered, and perpetrators have been arrested.
Effective and prompt investigations were conducted to expose perpetrators of human trafficking and impose appropriate legal penalties in accordance with the law. From January 2026 to date, 235 offenders involved in 83 exposed cases have been prosecuted under the Prevention and Suppression of Trafficking in Persons Law, leading to the rescue of 143 trafficked victims. Legal action has been taken against the brokers of illegal labour recruitment operations under the 1999 Law Relating to Overseas Employment, and appropriate assistance has been provided to the victims in accordance with the law. From January 2026 to date, 23 cases have been prosecuted under the Law Relating to Overseas Employment, leading to legal action taken against a total of 73 offenders, comprising 34 males and 39 females.
As fraudulent recruitment for illegal online gambling dens and online scam operations in border areas is increasingly carried out through organized crime networks, joint efforts with relevant ministries have been intensified to prevent illegal entry and human trafficking. Inspection and educational activities are being actively conducted at city checkpoints, bilateral border crossings, and international airports to raise awareness, intercept individuals, and facilitate their safe return home.
In line with the theme for the 14th Myanmar Anti-Trafficking in Persons Day 2026, “Trapped behind the scam”, everyone needs to collectively participate in combating human trafficking and build a safe, secure environment, thereby reducing trafficking in persons in Myanmar by remaining Watchful against deceptive offers and traps, verifying information thoroughly to prevent becoming victims of human trafficking, and protecting the families and communities through awareness.
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