Statement of China at the December 20 Debate on Human Trafficking

Resolution 2331 (2016), unanimously adopted today by the Security Council, will help the international community combat trafficking in persons in conflict areas and protect the rights and interests of women and children in a joint endeavour. Today, we are witnessing the swift emergence of problems in regional hotspots, the start of new conflicts and the continuance of protracted ones, which all pose a serious threat to the survival and dignity of the people in conflict situations, in particular vulnerable groups such as women and children, making them easier prey to violence and crime. It is incumbent upon the international community to build synergies to enhance the protection of the rights of women and children in areas of armed conflict and strive to end the trafficking of persons in such areas.

First, we must eradicate the root causes of conflict. While fighting transnational organized crime with great intensity and providing safety assurances for women and children in conflict situations, the international community should pay close attention to addressing the root causes of conflict.

Thirdly, we should help conflict-torn countries to strengthen their capacity-building. They bear the primary responsibility for protecting the safety of their women and children and combating human trafficking.

China will continue to strengthen its cooperation with Governments and the relevant international organizations in order to effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children, to combat human trafficking in conflict situations and to jointly safeguard international and regional peace, security, stability and development.