Guidance Note on preventing and combating trafficking in human beings for the purpose of labour exploitation (2021)

In monitoring states’ obligations under the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, the Group of Experts tasked with its’ monitoring (GRETA) observed that trafficking for the purpose of labour exploitation is increasingly on the rise; indeed, it has emerged as the predominant form of trafficking in some European countries. This form of trafficking occurs both in the formal and informal economy, and concerns women, men and children.

The new Guidance note on preventing and combating trafficking in human beings for the purpose of labour exploitation sets out the key indicators to support states in ensuring, for example, properly-functioning labour inspectorates, reporting requirements, effective victim identification and assistance and appropriate criminal justice responses.

As a complement to the recently published Compendium of good practices in addressing trafficking in human beings for the purpose of labour exploitation, the publication of this Guidance note completes part of the implementation of the Secretary General’s Roadmap on strengthening action against trafficking in human beings for the purpose of labour exploitation, and paves the way for a dedicated ad hoc working group to draft a Recommendation for adoption by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe on the topic.