Last week marked the 20th anniversary of the Council of Europe Convention on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings.
La Strada International congratulates the Council of Europe (CoE) and GRETA (Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings) on this important milestone. This is a moment to reflect and value the progress achieved and to continue discussions on the road ahead. LSI and its members are happy to continue to closely cooperate with the Secretariat and GRETA to strengthen the protection of trafficked persons across Europe.
Adopted in 3 May 2005 and entering into force on 1 February 2008, today the Convention enjoys universal ratification across all 46 CoE member states. The Convention establishes a legally binding framework to combat human trafficking through a human rights-based and victim-centred approach, obliging states to take minimum measures to protect victims, prevent trafficking, and prosecute perpetrators.
One of the Convention’s biggest strengths is its robust monitoring mechanism. All parties to the treaty have agreed to be assessed by GRETA, an independent expert body. GRETA’s reports and evaluations, currently in their fourth round, provide critical insight into the implementation of anti-trafficking measures. La Strada International particularly values GRETA’s inclusive approach, with NGOs being directly involved in monitoring visits, contributing shadow reports, participating in roundtables, trainings, and offering expertise to inform GRETA’s assessments. All LSI members have actively participated in these processes at national and international levels.
Over the years, La Strada International has worked closely with the Council of Europe to advocate for rights-based policies and practices, contributing to meaningful progress in the field, in various areas, such as:
- Ensuring unconditional support and assistance for trafficked persons
- Promoting the recognition of all forms of human trafficking
- Advocating for the creation of safe and accessible reporting mechanisms
- Supporting access to residence permits and justice for victims
- Strengthening the non-punishment principle for offences committed as a direct consequence of trafficking
As we celebrate its 20th anniversary, La Strada International reaffirms its commitment to working alongside the Council of Europe to safeguard human rights, promote effective anti-trafficking measures, and ensure that human rights remain at the heart of all anti-trafficking response measures.
©Council of Europe