AMERICA/MEXICO - Campaign against the indigenous trade in Yucatan

Merida (Agenzia Fides) - With an energetic and urgent appeal to fight what is called a "new slavery", the Commission on Human Rights of the State of Yucatan (CODHEY) and the National Commission for Human Rights (CNDH), have launched a Campaign against human trafficking of indigenous language, especially women, will be translated in 10 languages. The initiative is part of the recent celebration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The phenomenon of trafficking has its origin in economic factors such as poverty and unemployment, and social issues, such as violence against women, illiteracy, addiction and discrimination, all issues tied to local indigenous communities.
According to statistics, in the country human trafficking is the third largest illegal activity which produces more resources in the world, after drugs and arms sales. In Mexico, a high percentage of women, children, undocumented migrants, and indigenous groups are more likely to fall into the networks of illegal trade. The Programme against Trafficking has the objective to establish measures to prevent and fight crime, provide protection and assistance to victims. At the same time promotes adoption, awareness and enforcement of adequate laws that allow to fight against this crime and to respect the human rights of victims. To tackle it the collaboration between federal, local and civil society is essential. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 27/11/2012)