Syria has officially joined the Friends of Combating Trafficking in Persons Facilitated by Technology, according to an announcement made Saturday by Ibrahim al-Olabi, Syria’s permanent representative to the UN.
Olabi confirmed Syria’s decision during a meeting organized by the Republic of Korea’s delegation and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). He said the Syrian government accepted the invitation to join the group in light of the hardships endured by Syrians over recent decades, including human trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable populations for financial gain.
Experience Shaped by Regional Challenges
Speaking at the meeting, Olabi highlighted Syria’s experience in addressing transnational security threats and organized crime. “Due to what Syria has experienced and its geographical position at the crossroads of transit routes, Syria has acquired expertise in combating terrorism and cross-border crime, including the fight against Captagon and human trafficking.”
Olabi said, the country has made such gains in cooperation with the international community, adding Syria stands ready to cooperate with all member states of the group to strengthen international efforts against trafficking networks and related criminal activities.
Focus on Technology-Facilitated Trafficking
The Friends of Combating Trafficking in Persons Facilitated by Technology serves as an international platform for dialogue and cooperation among UN member states. The initiative seeks to address forms of human trafficking that increasingly rely on digital technologies and online platforms for recruitment, transportation, exploitation and the control of victims.
Its activities focus on sharing expertise and best practices, enhancing international cooperation, and strengthening national capacities in prevention, law enforcement and victim protection. The group works in coordination with relevant UN agencies, particularly UNODC, and includes 23 founding member states representing different regions of the world.
Expanding International Engagement
Syria’s accession to the group comes amid increased diplomatic activity by the Syrian government and broader efforts to expand engagement with international institutions. Since the new Syrian government assumed leadership on Dec. 8, 2024, Syrian officials have sought greater participation in international initiatives and multilateral forums. Supporters of these efforts describe them as part of a wider strategy to strengthen Syria’s role within the international community and deepen cooperation on global challenges.
On May 21, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates announced Syria’s accession to the global initiative for renewing political commitment to international humanitarian law. The ministry said the move reflected Syria’s intention to play a more active role in international affairs while reinforcing respect for the principles of international law and international humanitarian law.
Syria’s participation in the anti-trafficking group represents another step in that broader diplomatic engagement, while providing a framework for cooperation on combating technology-enabled forms of human trafficking and protecting vulnerable populations.
