The U. S. Department of State today released its annual Trafficking in Persons report. This important document discusses the efforts each country is making to halt the global trade in people trafficking and combat the networks that thrive by selling women and children.

“Because trafficking is a global problem that affects every country, the U.S. Congress has directed the State Department to analyze annually the efforts all of us are making to arrest this problem and protect the most vulnerable members of society. The 2008 Trafficking in Persons report chapter on Uruguay tells us that the government of President Vazquez is serious about addressing this global challenge and protecting would-be victims from criminal trafficking networks,” said United States Ambassador to Uruguay Frank Baxter.

Baxter noted that the United States is unfortunately the destination of many victims of trafficking. In addition to praising Uruguay for its cooperation, the Ambassador said that people trafficking networks work hand-in-hand with other criminal enterprises, including narcotics and money laundering.

“The 2008 report highlights the increased efforts of the government of Uruguay in 2007, including passage of the comprehensive immigration reform which includes anti-trafficking statutes. The report shows that President Vazquez and his government recognize the threat to society and are committed to removing a powerful criminal enterprise from Uruguayan soil,” added Baxter.

The full text of the 2008 Trafficking in Persons Report is available online.