The Tajik Foreign Ministry information department reports that three citizens of the Republic of Tajikistan, who had been victims of human trafficking in Myanmar, were returned to their homeland on January 20, 2024 under the coordination of the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in Malaysia and in cooperation with the Royal Thai authorities, the Embassy of Myanmar in Malaysia, as well as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the International Justice Mission (IJM).

The relevant Tajik authorities are reportedly carrying out rehabilitation and psychological work with these citizens and are taking the necessary preventative measures to prevent similar situations in the future.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan expresses its gratitude to the authorities of Thailand and Myanmar, as well as to the International Organization for Migration and the International Justice Mission, for their assistance in protecting the rights and interests of Tajik citizens and facilitating their return home.

Meanwhile, the Global Slavery Index 2023, produced by human rights group Walk Free, reveals the 10 countries with the highest prevalence of modern slavery are North Korea, Eritrea, Mauritania, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Tajikistan, United Arab Emirates, Russia, Afghanistan, and Kuwait.

“Modern slavery permeates every aspect of our society.  It is woven through our clothes, lights up our electronics, and seasons our food. At its core, modern slavery is a manifestation of extreme inequality.  It is a mirror held to power, reflecting who in any given society has it and who does not.  Nowhere is this paradox more present than in our global economy through transnational supply chains,” said Founding Director of Walk Free, Grace Forrest.