Combating Organized Crime and Human Trafficking: CPDI's Advocacy and Initiatives

Introduction

At the Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI), we recognize organized crime as a pervasive threat to Pakistan's security, economy, and social fabric. From transnational networks to local syndicates, these activities undermine the rule of law and exacerbate inequalities. While CPDI has not undertaken dedicated projects on human trafficking to date, our work in related areas—such as advocacy against transnational organized crime and gender-based violence—lays the foundation for broader interventions. This page highlights our ongoing efforts to raise awareness, build capacity, and push for systemic reforms.

Our Key Contributions

CPDI's engagement with organized crime focuses on education, policy advocacy, and stakeholder collaboration. Here are some highlights:

• Awareness Campaigns on Transnational Organized Crime: We view organized crime as a global challenge with local impacts in Pakistan. Through social media and public outreach, CPDI has spotlighted issues like Pakistan's position on the Global Organized Crime Index, calling for urgent reforms to strengthen law enforcement and international cooperation.
• Workshops and Capacity Building: CPDI promotes adherence to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). We have organized workshops for civil society, policymakers, and legal professionals to enhance understanding and implementation of this framework, fostering a coordinated response to cross-border threats.
• Addressing Organized Crime Against Women: As part of our campaigns during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, CPDI has drawn attention to how organized crime disproportionately affects women, including exploitation and violence. This intersects with our broader gender justice efforts to protect vulnerable populations.
• Justice Sector Support Program: Funded by The Asia Foundation, this initiative provides training for lawyers, Jirga members, and justice stakeholders. It emphasizes accountability in handling gender-based violence cases, which often overlap with organized criminal activities, aiming to improve access to justice and reduce impunity.

Why This Matters for Pakistan

Organized crime erodes public trust in institutions and hinders sustainable development. In Pakistan, it manifests in various forms, from smuggling and corruption to violence against marginalized groups. CPDI's work aligns with national priorities under frameworks like the National Action Plan and international commitments, advocating for evidence-based policies that prioritize prevention and victim support.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, CPDI is exploring opportunities to expand our scope, potentially including targeted research on human trafficking and partnerships with anti-trafficking organizations. We invite collaborations with government bodies, NGOs, and donors to amplify impact.