The UN condemned the practice of illegal alien smuggling as being in violation of international standards and human rights and called upon all member states to take effective prevention measures. The 49th session noted that the smuggling of illegal aliens has become a highly organized global criminal activity involving international criminal organizations and large sums of money. Air carrier smuggling operations are accomplished using false documentation; air smuggling routes are flexible and frequently shift in response to immigration pressures. Alien smuggling by sea reduces detection risks and maximizes smuggler profits. From September 1993 to April 1994, the International Organization for Migration documented 44 illegal alien trafficking incidents which were intercepted. The incidence of illegal alien smuggling in various countries is discussed, and specific measures to prevent smuggling are described. The importance of international cooperation to prevent illegal alien smuggling and relevant UN resolutions are highlighted. 6 notes