Photo: BSS

DHAKA, July 30, 2026 (BSS) – BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Adviser to Prime Minister Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today emphasized the need for widespread cultural activities alongside the rule of law and the spread of education to curb heinous crimes such as human trafficking.

"Cultural activities are essential to prevent a heinous crime like human trafficking. However, cultural practices have declined in our country, leading to an increase in criminal tendencies in society," he said.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled "Role of Media and Culture in Preventing Human Trafficking" held at the RC Majumdar Arts Auditorium of the Lecture Theater at Dhaka University (DU).

The seminar was jointly organized by the Dhaka University Journalists' Association (DUJA) and the Bangladesh Art Criticism Trust (BACT) to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2026.

Highlighting the need for social awareness and education, Rizvi further stated, “Alongside enforcing the rule of law, we must expand education across the nation. We need to raise the basic education level so that even an illiterate person at the root level can communicate with local administration or authorities to protect themselves from fraud, exploitation, violence, and human trafficking.”

Speaking as the special guest, State Minister for Social Welfare Barrister Farzana Sharmin   stressed the crucial role journalists play in combating human trafficking. 

She encouraged journalists to produce evidence-based, in-depth reports on such vital social issues and highlighted the necessity of coordinated efforts between domestic and international organizations to protect and support victims.

Addressing the seminar as the keynote speaker, Rezaul Karim Shohag, Chairperson of the Department of Criminology at DU, presented an overview of domestic and trans-border human trafficking. 

He also emphasized the effective implementation of the recently re-enacted 'Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking and Smuggling of Migrants Act 2026'.

Presided over by Sanjay Kumar Dey, Chairman of BACT and Assistant Professor of the Department of History, the event was attended by newly elected DUJA President Md. Manjur Hossain Mahi. 

The seminar commenced with a traditional Gambhira musical performance by DU students led by Kothok Biswas Joy, depicting trafficking awareness. 

This year's global theme for the day is "Trapped Behind the Scam," focusing on the human crisis and cyber slavery hidden behind online fraud.