Consul General of the Dominican Republic, Demetrio Antonio Fernandez Mena (right), puts hands together with Erling Hoeve (centre) and KPSM Inspector Liandro Rombley (left).
PHILIPSBURG–Ministry of Justice representative Erling Hoeve, the National Coordinator Against Human Trafficking and Human Smuggling, met with Consul General of the Dominican Republic, Demetrio Antonio Fernandez Mena, to discuss enhanced collaboration in combating human trafficking and smuggling.
The high-level meeting, held on June 11, was initiated by Inspector Liandro Rombley, Operations Leader of the Human Smuggling and Human Trafficking Team (UMM) of St. Maarten Police Force KPSM.
The productive discussion focused on the urgent need to raise awareness among migrant communities about the risks of exploitation and to strengthen cooperation within Sint Maarten. All officials emphasized that education and prevention are essential components in the fight against human trafficking, and that by working together, meaningful progress can be made.
A key outcome of the meeting was the consul general’s commitment to actively support the National Reporting Bureau’s “See Something, Say Something” awareness campaign. This campaign brings together various strategic partners within the justice and migration chains.
As part of the partnership, jointly developed informational flyers will be distributed to consulate visitors, ensuring that vital anti-trafficking information reaches those most in need.
“Stakeholder participation is not only crucial for protecting migrant communities but also for safeguarding our country’s reputation, which remains at Tier 3 according to the United States Department of State’s Anti-Trafficking Report,” noted participants during the meeting.
This collaboration marks a significant step forward in building a comprehensive network of protection and prevention. Plans are underway to expand the initiative by engaging other representatives of the various nationalities residing in St. Maarten.
The initiative reflects Sint Maarten’s commitment to addressing human trafficking through coordinated community outreach, improved detection capabilities, and sustained public awareness. Further details about the joint campaign materials will be announced in the coming weeks.
For more information on the “See Something, Say Something” campaign, visit: www.nrc.sx.
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/ministry-of-justice-dr-consulate-forge-anti-trafficking-partnership
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