DUSHANBE, July 30, 2010, Asia-Plus  -- A meeting of an expert group for finalization of a draft program for cooperation between the CIS nations in combating trafficking in persons, designed for 2011-2013, will take place in Minsk, Belarus on August 5-6 this year.

According to the CIS Executive Committee, the program has been developed by the Secretariat and the Research Advisory Center of the CIS Council of Prosecutor-Generals.  The program is dedicated to promote expansion of cooperation between the CIS nations in addressing modern challenges and treats to security of human being.

Package of measures provided for by the draft program has been worked out in compliance with principles and norms of international law on the basis of analysis of the crime situation and prognosis of its development within the CIS area and the findings of survey of practice of the fight against human trafficking and experience of joint actions.  The draft program includes events offered by experts and representatives of competent bodies form the CIS nations.

The main objectives of the program are in promoting further expansion and strengthening of legal foundation of cooperation, unification and harmonization of national laws on combating human trafficking and providing assistance to the trafficking victims, improvement of interaction of competent bodies of the CIS nations with international and non-governmental organizations, and holding of special operations.

The program also provides for information and scientific support for cooperation, and mutual assistance in training of personnel.