ICMPD, the International Centre for Migration Policy Development, recently conducted a three-day workshop from November 3 to 5, 2025, at Pearl Continental Hotel, Bhurban, under the FJA-PAK project. The workshop focused on strengthening collaboration among key stakeholders, including NCCIA, FIA, PTA, PK-CERT, OEC, and relevant ministries, to streamline the Referral Mechanism and facilitate information sharing related to fraudulent job advertisements, human trafficking, and smuggling of migrants. The program was designed to enhance the capacity of participants in addressing transnational crimes while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
The workshop provided a structured framework for inter-ministerial coordination, presenting a comprehensive charge matrix involving Ministry of Interior & Narcotics Control, Ministry of Overseas Pakistani and Human Resource Development, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This multi-departmental approach allows responsibilities to be clearly assigned across government entities based on the specific nature of each case, improving efficiency and accountability in handling cases of trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants. Participants also received guidance on jurisdictional issues to prevent overlaps or gaps in legal proceedings.
ICMPD emphasized the importance of proactive stakeholder engagement in protecting victims of forced labor, fraudulent recruitment schemes, and other exploitative practices. Trainers shared both theoretical knowledge of relevant laws and practical strategies for coordination and case management. The workshop highlighted the critical role of early identification, reporting, and intervention in preventing human trafficking and smuggling operations from escalating. By integrating insights from multiple agencies, participants explored effective ways to respond to complex transnational crimes while minimizing risks to victims.
Organized under the leadership of Project Manager Saira Abbas and guided by master trainer Jamal Aziz, the workshop reinforced the collaborative ethos necessary to tackle human trafficking and migrant smuggling. By bringing together national experts and representatives from law enforcement, regulatory authorities, and international organizations, ICMPD created a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and capacity building. The three-day sessions also fostered stronger partnerships between government agencies, enabling a more streamlined, coordinated, and effective response to fraudulent job advertisement networks and related cyber-enabled crimes, ultimately strengthening Pakistan’s mechanisms for protecting vulnerable individuals.
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