G7 leaders vow united action against migrant smuggling

At the latest summit, G7 leaders committed to a coordinated approach to combat migrant smuggling, emphasizing the need for stronger international collaboration, enhanced border security, and disruption of criminal networks exploiting vulnerable migrants. The pledge reflects growing global concern over irregular migration and the humanitarian crises linked to it. By working together, the G7 nations aim to uphold legal migration pathways while cracking down on illegal smuggling operations that endanger lives and undermine border integrity.

The G7 announced plans to work with social media platforms on voluntary guidelines aimed at preventing criminal organizations from using these tools to organize migrant smuggling. In a joint declaration, G7 leaders reaffirmed their commitment to tackling migrant smuggling under the framework of the G7 Coalition and the 2024 G7 Action Plan designed to curb these illicit activities.

They expressed strong determination to improve border control efforts, enforce laws more effectively, and dismantle the transnational criminal groups profiting from both smuggling and human trafficking. The leaders pointed out that smuggling is often linked to other major crimes such as money laundering, corruption, and trafficking of drugs and people, all of which threaten public safety.

They warned that smuggled individuals are frequently exposed to extreme dangers, including physical and sexual abuse, extortion, forced labor, and criminal exploitation. The G7 stressed that progress has been made in strengthening law enforcement capabilities and international coordination among police, judicial authorities, and border agencies.

Interior and Security Ministers were instructed to intensify efforts on the 2024 Action Plan by concentrating on four strategic areas. These include targeting financial networks used by criminals through intelligence-sharing, asset recovery, and efforts to disrupt illicit profits.

Preventive measures will also be prioritized in origin and transit countries by improving border control and raising awareness about the dangers of irregular migration. Plans were also announced to collaborate with transportation providers to stop them from being used to aid illegal migration or manipulation in geopolitical conflicts.

Additionally, the G7 will explore the application of sanctions against individuals or entities engaged in smuggling and trafficking, particularly in countries that allow such operations. They pledged to support international and regional partnerships and uphold legal migration channels that align with national interests.

Lastly, the G7 emphasized their ongoing commitment to defending migrants from abuse and exploitation, ensuring protection for the most at-risk, including displaced persons and refugees. The leaders concluded by affirming their united stance to confront migrant smuggling through comprehensive and coordinated global action.

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Source: business-standard‍