Statement by the Director-General, Ms. Jan Beagle
25 November 2025
Excellencies,
It is a pleasure to participate in this discussion on behalf of the International Development Law Organization, the only global intergovernmental organization exclusively devoted to promoting the rule of law to advance peace and sustainable development.
As we reflect on the fifteenth anniversary of the Global Plan of Action, IDLO’s experience in some 100 countries over the past four decades has shown us the importance of a rule of law approach that strengthens justice systems to prevent trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute offenders effectively.
Allow me to share three ways in which the rule of law can help accelerate progress in the implementation of the Global Plan of Action.
First, when justice systems are inclusive and accountable, anti-trafficking efforts yield more sustainable results. IDLO focuses on building public trust, engaging communities and upholding victims’ rights. A people-centred rule of law foundation is also essential for addressing underlying systemic challenges, such as corruption, weak capacity or absence of economic opportunity, that traffickers often exploit.
In the Gambia, for example, we helped streamline case management, reducing delays by 40 per cent. This means traffickers are brought to justice faster, and survivors receive support sooner.
Second, IDLO places special emphasis on protecting those most at risk, particularly women and children, who are disproportionately affected by trafficking.
For instance, in Liberia, we strengthened the capacity of law enforcement and justice officials to handle trafficking cases in ways that take account of the specific circumstances of women and girls. As a result, survivors are better identified and supported, and more perpetrators of crimes against women and children are held accountable.
Third, traffickers do not stop at borders and neither can our responses.
Coordinated cross-border and cross-sectoral approaches can result in more successful investigations and prosecutions of trafficking and other forms of transnational organized crime.
In the Mano River region of West Africa, IDLO has supported governments in harmonizing anti-trafficking legislation with international standards, developing joint strategies, and strengthening cross-border cooperation, including awareness campaigns in at-risk communities that empower the public to contribute to prevention efforts.
As we look ahead, we must acknowledge that gaps persist and new forms of exploitation – from online-facilitated trafficking to conflict-related trafficking – are emerging.
Addressing these challenges requires renewed commitment to the Plan’s vision of action that is both holistic and people-centred. It means investing in effective, accessible justice systems and forging strong regional and international partnerships.
IDLO remains committed to collaborating with all partners to translate international commitments into practical results for the people we serve.