KOK News

Report on online and technology-based trafficking in human beings published by the Council of Europe

The rapidly increasing availability of technology and generalised access to the internet have significantly changed the criminal landscape in recent years. At the same time, digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence are creating new opportunities to prevent and investigate crimes and to identify and assist victims.

Cover report on online and technology facilitatted trafficking in human beings

In a new report on online and technology-facilitated trafficking in human beings, the Council of Europe's Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA) presents the results of questionnaires sent to the 48 states parties to the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, civil society organisations and technology companies. The study focuses on examining the legal and operational challenges faced by member states and non-governmental organisations in detecting, investigating and prosecuting trafficking in human beings, as well as identifying those who have been trafficked online and through technology. Furthermore, the report contains evidence-based recommendations for action to improve cooperation with private companies and to strengthen cross-border cooperation.

The challenges posed by technology on the investigation of trafficking in human beings cases include, in the first place, data encryption, followed by the large volume of data, the speed of technological change, the lack of technical equipment and inadequate legislative tools. Challenges to the prosecution include obtaining evidence from other countries, lack of training among prosecutors, and inadequate legislative tools and assistance from the private sector.

Supported by
Logo BMFSFJ
KOK is a member of

Contact

KOK - Bundesweiter Koordinierungskreis gegen Menschenhandel e.V.
Lützowstr.102-104
Hof 1, Aufgang A
10785 Berlin

Tel.: 030 / 263 911 76
E-Mail: info@kok-buero.de

KOK auf bluesky