Mongolia - An increase in migration flows – inward, outbound and internal -  are throwing up new challenges for the landlocked nation of Mongolia.

The main issues include irregular migration, fraud, visa violations and increased incidence of trafficking in human beings, particularly young Mongolian women, who are trafficked for sexual exploitation and forced marriage, both within and outside the country.

To assist in combatting these phenomena, on 14 and 15 October IOM will host a two-day policy seminar in Ulaanbaatar on “Trafficking in Human Beings,” in collaboration with the National Security Council of Mongolia.

The event will bring together Members of Parliament, senior officials from several Mongolian ministries and institutions, and representatives from international and civil society organizations. The participants will exchange ideas on conceptual and practical tools, share experiences, and analyze international and regional laws, policies and frameworks related to counter-trafficking.

The seminar has two main objectives: increase knowledge and awareness among participants regarding human trafficking issues in Mongolia and how to address them; and facilitate the development of effective counter-trafficking policies.  

Pär Liljert, IOM Officer-in-Charge in Mongolia, describes the seminar as “an opportunity for participants to exchange information, better understand their respective systems and practices, as well as learn from international examples on counter-trafficking laws.”

It will also “enhance dialogue and coordination among parliamentarians, senior officials and other stakeholders who are tasked with combating human trafficking in Mongolia,” he notes.

The seminar will be organized in the framework of the project “Supporting the Government of Mongolia to improve Migration Management,” funded by the IOM Development Fund (IDF.) The project contributes towards the creation of a positive and meaningful dialogue in Mongolia to prioritize border management and counter-trafficking efforts.

Despite the increased political will and the government’s commitment to improve the legal framework to combat trafficking, challenges remain regarding the effective implementation of the law, including protection of survivors and criminal prosecution of traffickers.

For further information please contact Oyunbileg Rentsendorj at IOM Mongolia, Tel: + 97694 443103, Email: orentsendorj@iom.int