On 12 June, the EU Council adopted new conclusions on combating trafficking in human beings providing recommendations for EU member states, the Commission, and EU agencies. These conclusions give some indications for the possible focusses of the upcoming EU Anti-trafficking Strategy, foreseen to be adopted early next year for the period 2026 – 2029.
The conclusions highlight the vulnerability of children for (online and offline) sexual exploitation and for forced marriage and forced criminality; as well as the particular vulnerability of (third country national) migrants, especially those fleeing conflict. It also stresses the need for adequate cross-border cooperation and active engagement with and between law enforcement including labour inspectors, judicial authorities, as well as with civil society organisations and private parties, such as online platforms and network operators, particularly in relation to victim identification and coordinated responses. Moreover, the conclusions stress the urgent need to guarantee access to international protection, next to (human rights-based) services, such as healthcare, housing, and education.
The digital space is recognised as a growing tool for recruitment, exploitation, and control, and the promotion of public-private partnerships, especially in IT and telecom is promoted, to develop AI-driven data analysis tools and mechanisms for early detection, identification, and reporting of trafficking activities.
The Council further calls for the harmonisation of definitions and procedures, to effectively combat cross-border trafficking in human beings. With the launch of the EU Anti-Trafficking Hub, the Commission is requested to support Member States in implementing the revised EU Anti-Trafficking Directive and Strategy by providing guidelines, promoting best practices, fostering cooperation, and aiding in prevention and support programmes especially for women and children – through EU funding, EMPACT, early victim identification, and enhanced private sector accountability.
CopyRight: European Council