WELLINGTON, Aug 14 (NNN-RNZ) – New Zealand is tightening trafficking and smuggling laws, to close loopholes that have allowed offenders to evade real consequences for crime.
Justice Minister, Paul Goldsmith, said yesterday that, since 2009, over 50 trafficking victims have been found in New Zealand, but only four cases were prosecuted and two led to convictions, prompting warnings the problem is far bigger.
“Those who traffic, smuggle, and exploit other human beings are preying on some of our most vulnerable, and causing egregious harm, particularly to women and children,” Goldsmith said, adding that, the changes would bring the law in line with international standards and United Nations conventions.
Key reforms include, removing the need to prove coercion or deception, when trafficking victims are under 18, clarifying that consent is irrelevant in such cases, closing gaps that allow the use of authentic but fraudulently obtained travel documents, and improving protections for undercover police in child exploitation investigations.– NNN-RNZ
