The National Agency Against Trafficking in Persons (NAATIP) is a Gambian government agency responsible for combating human trafficking and forced labor.
NAATIP was established in 2007 by a resolution of the National Assembly of the Gambia and operates under the Ministry of Justice. It officially began operations on December 1, 2011. [1]
Human trafficking is considered a significant issue in Gambia. According to Director Jawara-Ceesay, Gambia serves as a source country for human trafficking, with Gambians being forced into labor abroad. It is also a transit and destination country for trafficking victims forced into labor within Gambia. [2] Women, girls, and, to some extent, boys are forced into sex work and various forms of forced labor. Victims face stigma and have limited access to support services. [3]
A 2020 report by the United States Department of State noted that, despite efforts, the Gambian government did not fully meet the minimum standards for combating human trafficking. [4] In response, President Adama Barrow ordered an increase in staffing and enhanced border enforcement. [5]
In 2015, a person was convicted of trafficking 19 Gambian girls. [6] As of mid-2021, NAATIP reported that 15 human trafficking cases were being prosecuted in Gambian courts. [7]
NAATIP's primary objectives include raising awareness, providing training, and educating the Gambian population on human trafficking. [8] The agency also trains police, security personnel, and border officials on handling human trafficking cases. [1] [9]
NAATIP collaborates with anti-trafficking organizations in neighboring countries, such as the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and Other Related Matters (NAPTIP) in Nigeria. [10]