19.05.2021

On May 19, 2021, the delegation from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Azerbaijan visited the shelter for victims of human trafficking and the "Hotline" No. 152, operated under the Main Department on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings at the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Present at the event were Police Major General Hazi Aslanov, Head of the Main Department on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Deputy Chief Police Colonel Samir Zeynalov, Head of Division Police Colonel Araz Babayev, and Police Lieutenant Samir Hasanli from the International Cooperation Department. From IOM, the delegation included Head of IOM Azerbaijan Vladimir Georgiev, Counter-Trafficking in Persons Activity Project Coordinator Ersilia Apreda, and Project Assistant Nargiz Karimova. Also in attendance were Dhulce-Janise, Office Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), USAID Political Adviser Mike Henning, and Azerbaijani Representative Parviz Musayev.

During the visit, detailed information was provided about the administrative building of the shelter, its operational history, areas of activity, staffing, and the living conditions provided for victims. The delegation was briefed on individual work plans and documents prepared for the victims.

Vladimir Georgiev and other IOM representatives engaged individually with victims, gaining firsthand insights into their living conditions. Victims expressed satisfaction with the shelter's provision of decent living conditions, specialized care, necessary documentation, and support for continuing education.

Additionally, the delegation visited "Hotline" No. 152, where Gunay Ibrahimova, the hotline director, presented a comprehensive overview of its activities. The delegation learned about recent improvements, including the installation of an optical and secure internet line, acquisition of new communication equipment, and software upgrades.

The delegation expressed appreciation for the fruitful cooperation and the informative session, highlighting its significant contribution to the shared goal of combating human trafficking. They commended the Government of Azerbaijan for its effective initiatives in this critical area.

The meeting was conducted in a cordial and productive atmosphere.