The ECOWAS Commission, in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), has provided direct support to more than 1,000 victims of human trafficking across West Africa, reaffirming its commitment to combating the crime.
The initiative, which coincides with the 2025 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, themed “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime – End the Exploitation,” underscores ECOWAS’ continued focus on human security and social protection in the region.
According to an official statement, ECOWAS, through its Directorate of Humanitarian and Social Affairs (DHSA), disbursed $516,000 between August 15, 2024, and February 15, 2025. The funds were administered by IOM to provide assistance rooted in a victim-centered and rights-based approach.
The Commission also continues to offer technical assistance, policy guidance, and capacity building to its Member States, with a strategic emphasis on the “4Ps” framework: prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnership.
The intervention highlights the region’s collective response to trafficking and exploitation, while reinforcing collaboration among national governments and international partners to dismantle trafficking networks and support survivors.
