Contributions to the Commission's Third Report on the Progress Made in the Fight Against Trafficking
by Abriel SCHIEFFELERS
With feedback from several EU countries, the European Affairs Office contributed to the AHT civil society platform's call for contributions to the Commission's Third Report on the progress made in the fight against trafficking in human beings. The previous report can be found here.
The comments in The Salvation Army’s contribution highlighted the need for continued focus on victims of trafficking for sexual exploitation, fighting against the culture of impunity, and to better resource projects assisting survivors and those at risk of trafficking. The Salvation Army in many EU countries called for greater attention given to the trafficking of Roma, the need for victim-centred approaches in creating policies and working with survivors of trafficking, and reducing demand.
The report also highlighted the current COVID-19 crisis, which raises unique barriers to assisting victims of trafficking across Europe. The Salvation Army in several EU countries reports fewer referrals, as well as extended stays for victims of trafficking who are currently being housed by The Salvation Army projects. This crisis will undoubtedly result in greater marginalization of groups who are vulnerable to trafficking, such as undocumented migrants and Roma who are often used as a scapegoat for major crises. Member states with weak social safety nets are anticipating a rise in trafficking in the aftermath of the crisis due to a shortage of employment opportunities. Of particular concern to The Salvation Army in this crisis is the rise of free internet pornography in countries like France and Italy that increase the demand for sex trafficking and sex trafficking of minors.
Tags: Europe