Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Adviser to the Prime Minister, emphasized the need for widespread cultural activities alongside the rule of law and education to curb human trafficking. Speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled 'Role of Media and Culture in Preventing Human Trafficking' held at Dhaka University, Rizvi highlighted the decline in cultural practices and its correlation with increased criminal tendencies. The seminar, organized by the Dhaka University Journalists' Association and the Bangladesh Art Criticism Trust, marked the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2026.
Rizvi stated, 'Cultural activities are essential to prevent a heinous crime like human trafficking. However, cultural practices have declined in our country, leading to an increase in criminal tendencies in society.' He also stressed the need for social awareness and education, advocating for expanded education across the nation to raise basic education levels and protect individuals from fraud, exploitation, violence, and human trafficking.
State Minister for Social Welfare Barrister Farzana Sharmin, speaking as the special guest, emphasized the crucial role of journalists in combating human trafficking. She encouraged journalists to produce evidence-based, in-depth reports and highlighted the necessity of coordinated efforts between domestic and international organizations to protect and support victims. Rezaul Karim Shohag, Chairperson of the Department of Criminology at Dhaka University, presented an overview of domestic and trans-border human trafficking and emphasized the effective implementation of the recently re-enacted 'Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking and Smuggling of Migrants Act 2026'.
