Ethiopia sets up measures to fight human trafficking
Ethiopia has launched its first national hotline to help people at risk of human trafficking and unsafe migration.
The toll-free hotline, 8797, is available across the country in Amharic, Afan Oromo, English, and Tigrigna.
The hotline offers information on safe migration, the dangers of irregular migration, and support for victims of human trafficking.
According to IOM Ethiopia, it also provides mental health support, free legal aid, and connects people to other services.
The Ministry of Justice set up the hotline with help from the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
H.E. Belayhun Yirga, State Minister of the Ministry of Justice, said the hotline would help Ethiopia fight human trafficking and protect vulnerable people.
IOM Ethiopia Chief of Mission Abibatou Wane called the hotline a "lifeline" for victims and a "bridge to safety, support, and justice."
IOM also helped develop a handbook and training guide for those running the hotline.
The service links with other hotlines and services that give health information, legal aid, and support for survivors of gender-based violence.
The hotline is also part of the National Referral Mechanism and National Partnership Coalition, which brings together government agencies and partners to fight human trafficking.
The IOM works closely with the Ethiopian government to improve migration management, protect vulnerable people, and fight human trafficking in the country.
