Chief Justice presided over the launch of  the Kenya Judicial Bench Book on Labour Trafficking in Persons, which is an easily accessible reference guide that will enhance effectiveness in the administration of justice.

The growth of trafficking in recent times is fueled by the negative consequences of globalisation, particularly advancement in communication and transportation, unemployment, poverty and ineffective enforcement of anti-trafficking laws among other factors.

She said trafficking is a serious violation of human rights that calls for concerted and coordinated efforts by all those involved to root out the conditions that enable the crime to thrive and also ensure that the perpetrators of these abuses are brought to justice.

“By approaching the question of labour trafficking from a victim-centred approach, this bench book has shown sensitivity to abused women, children and other vulnerable persons whose suffering we should never lose sight of,” the CJ said.

She added: “By drawing on our local jurisprudence and comparative jurisprudence, the bench book makes available to judges, judicial officers and other users a wealth of learning that will enable competent and effective resolution of disputes.”

The bench book includes ‘good judicial practices for managing trafficking in persons cases,’ that will ensure that the law is administered expeditiously and effectively.

The bench book is an initiative of the International Association of Women Judges (including the Kenya Chapter) led by the President, Hon. Lady Justice Agnes Murgor.

The Judicial Bench Book on Labour Trafficking in Persons launched in Nairobi today was developed by International Association of Women Judges – Kenya Chapter partnership with International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ).

The Bench Book was developed in recognition of the high prevalence and impact caused by human trafficking globally, regionally, and locally.

It provides useful insight for judicial officers and judges on the dynamics of trafficking in persons thus equipping them with the requisite knowledge to tackle various legal and evidentiary issues that come up during the trial of cases involving trafficking in persons.

The Bench Book will play a crucial role in improving effectiveness of the justice sector in combating trafficking in persons in Kenya.

It will serve as an instrument for securing social justice by enlivening the fight against the exploitation associated with trafficking in persons.

The Book will be of immense utility to not only judges and judicial officers, but also to prosecutors, advocates, and other actors in the chain of justice.