Stopping the Traffic
Prevalence and Prevention of Trafficking of Women and Children in Bangladesh: Twenty-five years after the Palermo protocol
Highlights
Twenty-five years after the Palermo Protocol, Bangladesh continues to face grave challenges in preventing the trafficking of women and children. UNICEF’s new report, Stopping the Traffic: Prevalence and Prevention of Trafficking of Women and Children in Bangladesh (2025), reveals that thousands remain at risk through forced labour, sexual exploitation, child marriage, and unsafe migration. Despite stronger laws and rising convictions, detection and survivor assistance remain only “the tip of the iceberg.” The study highlights climate-related displacement, poverty, and harmful social norms as key drivers, while also showcasing solutions, scaling child protection systems, strengthening social service workforces, and expanding safe migration pathways. The message is clear: Bangladesh has the legal framework, but the next mile is delivery, ensuring every child is reached with protection, prevention, and real remedies.
