The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) published a report on the extent of trafficking in human beings in South Eastern Europe. Based on country reports and five expert meetings, the areas of access to effective compensation for trafficked persons, trafficking for labour exploitation, influencing demand for trafficking, combating sexual exploitation through international cooperation and trafficking in children were examined. In addition to a situation analysis, the report contains recommendations on all the areas examined.
According to the report, high numbers of cases continue to be registered in the region, with trafficking for sexual exploitation being the most widespread. However, cases of labour exploitation are also increasingly being reported, due to increased efforts by law enforcement agencies. Children are the most affected group when it comes to forced criminal activities.
The report identifies numerous challenges in combating trafficking in human beings, including the increasing use of technology for recruitment and exploitation, such as social networks and online platforms, especially in the context of the COVID 19 pandemic.
