Juba, South Sudan- The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with Union of Journalists in South Sudan and Civil Society Forum in South Sudan facilitated a training for 54 Journalists and Civil Society in Juba. The training supported by  European Union and IOM’s Better Migration Management project aimed at enhancing media professionals’ understanding of the complexities surrounding trafficking in persons (TIP) and their role in combatting it.

“As a government, we are making strides in the fight against TIP for instance we have initiated domestication of conventions on Tip. However, TIP needs a whole approach both from civil society, government, the media and international partners” said South Sudan's Minister of Interior Hon. Angelina Teny.

As a source, destination and transit for individuals traveling along migration routes, including the Southern route from Ethiopia and the northern route to Libya, human trafficking remains a pressing issue in South Sudan, with vulnerable populations, including migrants, women, and children, often at risk of exploitation. Media plays a critical role in raising awareness, influencing public perception, and holding stakeholders accountable. However, ethical and fact-based reporting is essential to avoid misinformation, protect victims, and support prevention efforts.

“Migration in South Sudan is a story of hope. Migrants face lots of hurdles. GIZ together with EU join forces in supporting the government in addressing trafficking in person as this cannot be an individual venture but a collective venture”, said Barbara Egger, Team Leader at the EU Delegation to South Sudan.

The training focused on the migration glossary and the importance of legal terminologies in telling migration stories. Through use of case studies, reports and groupwork, journalists acquired new techniques to approach migration-related topics such as trafficking in persons, migrant smuggling, migrant rights and the importance of ethical consideration and victim centred reporting in a more nuanced manner. 

“The media are crucial social actors in preventing human trafficking in South Sudan. By fostering ethical storytelling, they will contribute to a more informed public and encourage stronger action against traffickers.” Said Muhammad Asar, IOM South Sudan Head of Operations.

The training of journalist is part of IOM’s broader efforts to combat human trafficking in South Sudan which include strengthening institutional capacity, supporting victim assistance, and enhancing cross-border collaboration

For more information, please contact Nabie Loyce in IOM South Sudan; email: nloyce@iom.int , Tell: +211 912380115