Accra: The Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has called for a review of the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694). She emphasized that the law, which was enacted two decades ago, must be a 'living' document that reflects emerging issues and current challenges in the fight against human trafficking.

According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Lartey made these remarks on the sidelines of an event to climax the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons celebration in Accra. The event, organized by the Human Trafficking Secretariat, followed a health walk and was themed 'The Human Trafficking Law @ 20: The Journey So Far in Ghana.' The global theme for this year's Blue Day, marked annually on July 30, is 'Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind.'

Dr Lartey underscored the importance of reviewing the Act to ensure it effectively protects victims, impacts lives, and supports the prosecution of perpetrators. She noted that, after 20 years of implementation, there are emerging trends and issues that necessitate reconsideration and inclusion in the Act.

The Minister highlighted that the national fight against human trafficking now involves more sectors and agencies, making the need for a review more pressing. She pointed out the necessity for the Act to address the specific needs of Ghanaians and to reflect on the progress and challenges encountered over the years.

The Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694), was established to prevent, reduce, and punish human trafficking and to provide for the rehabilitation and reintegration of trafficked persons. Dr Lartey stressed the importance of ensuring the Act remains relevant and responsive to the current landscape of human trafficking issues.