Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs considers the declaration on Combating Human Trafficking Resulting from Technological Abuse (TPPO) crucial for the interests of the ASEAN community due to the fact that human trafficking victims originate not only from Indonesia but also from various other Southeast Asian countries.

"The focal point of these human trafficking cases occur in countries such as Myanmar, Cambodia, and even the Philippines, not only in Indonesia. The victims are members of the ASEAN community," said Teuku Faizasyah, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as quoted by Antara on Friday (12/5/2023).

During the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo on May 10-11, ASEAN leaders generated at least 10 documents, including the Declaration on Combating Human Trafficking Resulting from Technological Abuse.

In this crucial declaration, ASEAN leaders have come to a consensus on the urgent need to strengthen cooperation and coordination in the fight against human trafficking. This objective will be achieved by enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement agencies and relevant institutions in each member state to conduct thorough investigations and collect accurate data and evidence.

Through this declaration, ASEAN leaders have committed to enhancing legal capacities in order to effectively identify victims, detect and prosecute crimes, engage in joint exercises and coordinated operations, as well as collaborate on investigations related to TPPO and other transnational crimes.

"The implementation of these measures will be carried out by officials who possess the technical expertise in handling such matters, including the police, immigration, cybercrime units, and other stakeholders. All of them will will work in a more coordinated manner due to the existence of the declaration," he said.

(ndt/hn/um)