During the UNGA, Pakistan calls for a joint fight against transnational organized crime

NEW YORK: Pakistan has emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to combating transnational organized crime, with a focus on tackling root causes, promoting social inclusion and ensuring equal access to justice for all.

This statement was made by Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Usman Iqbal Jadoon, during his address to the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly, which deals with social, humanitarian and cultural issues.

He pointed out that transnational organized crime continues to undermine the rule of law, economic development and the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In a discussion on crime prevention, criminal justice and countering the misuse of information and communications technologies for criminal activities, he noted that climate change is creating new vulnerabilities that organized criminal groups exploit.

He also highlighted other forms of transnational organized crime, including money laundering, cybercrime, corruption, human smuggling and human trafficking, which pose significant challenges.

Ambassador Iqbal Jadoon detailed Pakistan’s initiatives to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, including the establishment of an independent Financial Audit Unit to work with other countries in tackling these issues.

He also expressed concern about the increase in hate crimes, particularly those fueled by Islamophobia, and other acts that incite intolerance based on race, ethnicity, religion or belief. He emphasized the importance of promoting mutual respect for diverse religious and cultural beliefs to promote understanding and coexistence.

The Ambassador noted that the rapid spread of disinformation on online platforms and social media has exacerbated social discord and contributed to competitive nationalism, discrimination, hate speech and various forms of intolerance.

He expressed Pakistan’s readiness to contribute constructively to the upcoming negotiations on the draft Additional Protocol to the Convention.

Regarding the global drug problem, the Pakistani envoy stated that it continues to have a significant impact on health, safety, security and socio-economic development.

He pointed to emerging challenges, such as the proliferation of new psychoactive substances and the increasing use of the darknet for illicit drug activities, which raise serious concerns.

Ambassador Iqbal Jadoon reiterated the Pakistani government’s firm commitment to eradicate drug abuse, organized crime and the misuse of ICT for criminal purposes through concerted global efforts.