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KNOWLEDGE SECTION – REFORM OF THE EU VICTIM PROTECTION DIRECTIVE

KOK Online Support Service against Trafficking in Human Beings On January 14th, the KOK launched its first nationwide digital counselling service. The platform is aimed at people seeking advice and those potentially affected by Trafficking in Human Beings and exploitation, and enables an initial assessment of the individual situation as well as, if necessary, referral to specialized support structures.

The consultation is anonymous and free of charge via chat or email, provided by experienced professionals from KOK member organizations. Email inquiries are generally answered within one business day. The service is currently available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 14 p.m. and will be further expanded after a pilot phase.

The aim is to reach people in particular who wish to make initial contact digitally and without having to disclose any further information. "The online contact point provides an additional and specialized way for people to access support [...] It offers guidance, creates security and leads to the appropriate advice," says Andrea Hitzke from the KOK board.

The service represents an important addition to existing support structures such as the helpline "Violence against Women" and at the same time pools the expertise of various specialised counselling centres, in order to further improve digital accessibility and low-threshold support for those affected.

The European statistical office Eurostat reports For the year 2024, 9.678 people were registered as affected by Trafficking in Human Beings in the EU. Thus, eight percent fewer affected individuals were identified compared to 2023, marking the first decline in several years.

The trend varies across member states: In 12 of the 27 EU countries, the number of registered cases increased, while in 14 it decreased; one country reported no change. Several countries attribute the increased numbers, among other things, to greater awareness and improved identification and reporting procedures.

63 percent of the registered victims were women or girls. Sexual exploitation At 46 percent, it remained the most common form of exploitation. At the same time, the labor exploitation It has increased significantly in recent years and is now almost at the same level. Other forms, such as exploitation of begging, criminal acts, or organ harvesting, accounted for around 16 percent.

Across the EU, the number of convicted offenders rose by 13 percent in 2024, while the number of suspects decreased.

The Expert Council on Integration and Migration (SVR), an independent scientific advisory body on migration and integration issues, criticizes in a Press release from February 10th The weakening of the so-called connection principle in the context of safe third countries, as envisaged within the framework of the CEAS reform, which the EU agreed upon as part of the further development of the Common European Asylum System (CEAS), is viewed by the Expert Council on Integration and Migration (SVR). This will make it possible in the future to deport people to a non-EU country even if they have no connection whatsoever to that country. The SVR considers this a watershed moment that massively restricts the interests and rights of asylum seekers regarding their place of residence and significantly alters the concept of safe third countries. 

The Expert Council on Integration and Migration (SVR) views this regulation as a preparatory step towards the Return Regulation, which is currently also being negotiated at the European level and is intended, among other things, to allow the deportation of people to countries willing to accept them, even if they previously had no connection to them. It is particularly concerning when people are deported to third countries without an individual human rights assessment.

On February 23, the European Commission launched an EU-wide awareness campaign against Trafficking in Human Beings launched. Under the title “End human trafficking – Break the invisible chain“ will be about Trafficking in Human Beings It raises awareness. It is intended to help identify possible signs of exploitation and coercion at an early stage.

The background to this is the statistics of the European Union, according to which around 10.000 people are officially registered as affected by [disease/disease] each year. Trafficking in Human Beings Many cases are identified, but many more remain undetected.

The campaign is aimed at the general public and encourages them to pay attention to possible warning signs, report suspected cases, and support those affected. It draws attention to the fact that Trafficking in Human Beings which often takes place in secret and that raising awareness is a key step in making exploitation visible and help accessible.

Our preview of BEAM NRW A new advisory center was established in North Rhine-Westphalia at the beginning of 2026, combining existing experience from in-person and digital advisory services into an integrated structure. The goal is to Trafficking in Human Beings and labor exploitation to combat it more effectively and to provide comprehensive support to those affected.

The services include advice on labor and social law, outreach work, digital prevention approaches – such as information and advice services via social media that raise awareness of risks early on, warn against dubious job offers and start in the country of origin – as well as specialized support and accommodation for those affected by Trafficking in Human Beings. A particular focus is on early outreach, for example via social media, as well as on cross-border cooperation, especially in the German-Dutch border region.

The project is sponsored by Arbeit und Leben NRW, is free of charge and multilingual, and is aimed at EU citizens and third-country nationals. 

The German Association of Women Lawyers (djb) makes in a Policy Papers On March 10th, attention was drawn to the continued inadequacy of legal regulations concerning psychological violence. Psychological violence is a widespread and serious form of gender-based violence, but is currently only addressed fragmentarily in German law and is frequently underestimated in practice.

According to the German Association of Women Lawyers (djb), the incomplete criminal law coverage of digital violence also has an impact on other areas of law, such as social compensation law or immigration law.

The German Association of Women Lawyers (djb) therefore calls for greater awareness among legal practitioners, legal clarification of the concept of violence, and an examination of whether psychological violence should be addressed separately in criminal law. The definition of violence in the Istanbul Convention must be the decisive factor in this regard.

With the study “Living situation, safety and stress in everyday life“(LeSuBiA) from the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), the Federal Ministry of Education, Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMBFSFJ) and the Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) is the first comprehensive, representative dark figure survey on experiences of violence in Germany since 2014. 

Between July 2023 and January 2025, more than 15.000 people aged 16 to 85 were surveyed. The study focused particularly on experiences of violence in (ex-)partnerships, sexualized violence, and violence in the digital sphere, regardless of whether the incidents were reported. The first part of the study was published in early 2026.

While the Police Crime Statistics (PKS) only reflect crimes registered by the police, the so-called light field, a dark field survey provides insights into the actual extent of violence, including unreported crimes. 

The study shows, among other things, that one in two respondents experienced physical violence in childhood and one in three reported psychological violence. Women are significantly more likely to be affected by sexual violence, harassment, and stalking, and experience more severe forms of violence overall. At the same time, reporting rates remain low across all forms of violence. Younger people, LGBTQIA* individuals, and people with a migration background are particularly affected. 

Criticism However, Weibernetz eV, among others, criticizes the study, stating that it barely considers people with disabilities and, apart from a reference to an increased risk among children, contains no differentiated statements on the impact of violence on people with disabilities. This is particularly problematic given previous promises of an intersectional analysis and represents a key research gap.

The UN Special Rapporteur on Children trafficked and sexual exploitation of children, Mama Fatima Singhateh takes stock of progress and remaining challenges in the global fight against the sexuelle Ausbeutung from children.

In your Message She emphasizes that despite political and legal progress, significant gaps remain in prevention, prosecution, and data collection. She particularly highlights new and evolving risk factors, including digital technologies, conflict, displacement, and weak regulatory and protection structures, which can facilitate new forms of exploitation.

The report analyzed contributions from more than 120 states, international organizations, civil society actors, and human rights institutions. In addition, insights gained from country visits, academic literature, and consultations with various stakeholders were incorporated into the analysis.

The report underlines the need for stronger international cooperation, improved protection mechanisms, and a consistently child rights-based policy to protect children more effectively from harm. Children trafficked , to protect against sexual exploitation and abuse.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has published a revised edition of the “Indicators of Forced Labour“published. The publication is aimed particularly at professionals in counseling, law enforcement, labor inspectorate and social work and is intended to support them in identifying risks of Forced labour and heavier labor exploitation to be recognized early.

The indicators are based on decades of research and practical experience of the ILO in the fight against Forced labour and Trafficking in Human Beings for the purpose of labor exploitationThey serve as a practical tool to identify potential cases, refer those affected to appropriate support services, and support investigations.

The specialist counselling center JADWIGA has expanded its existing range of services. Educational videos about human trafficking expanded. The videos are now available in a total of eleven languages ​​and are aimed particularly at potentially affected individuals and multipliers.

They provide practical information about the risks of exploitation, typical recruitment situations and support services, and help to reach more people in an easily accessible way.

The Guidance on access to subsistence benefits under SGB XIV the KOK should specialised counselling centres in doing this, they supported those affected by Trafficking in Human Beings and to address exploitation in accessing subsistence benefits under the Social Compensation Law (SGB XIV). Securing one's livelihood is a key prerequisite for those affected to achieve stability and make autonomous decisions about their next steps. Without this security, dependencies often persist, and the risk of renewed exploitation increases.

This practical guide demonstrates how benefits under the German Social Code, Book XIV (SGB XIV), can be claimed even during ongoing eligibility assessments and what options exist for expedited social court proceedings to ensure rapid support. It thus provides concrete guidance for advisory practice, particularly in the context of... reflection and stabilization period according to § 59 para. 7 of the Residence Act.

In addition to the legal opinion "Tax Debt of Forced Prostitutes" published in December 2025, which thoroughly examines the legal challenges and outlines options for action for those affected, the KOK published a report in early March 2026. Recommendations for policy and administration for a fair and responsible approach to tax debts in the context of Zwangsprostitution published.

The first KOK members' meeting of the year took place in Berlin from March 26th to 27th. During the meeting, the board was elected for the term 2026–2028, as is customary. The incumbent board members Andrea Hitzke, Margarete Mureșan, Claudia Robbe, and Adina Schwartz were re-elected. Sabrina Burkhart from Aldona eV was newly elected to the board.

The meeting focused primarily on technical topics, alongside reports from the working groups and organizational decisions. Discussions included current developments such as the online contact point. Trafficking in Human Beings and the approaching end of the implementation period of the reformed EU directive into national law.

In addition, the members exchanged ideas in working groups on topics such as digital outreach work, Trafficking in Human Beings in the context of refugees and CEAS, financing of violence support structures and Prostitutes Protection Act The meeting thus provided a space for professional exchange, strategic development and networking within the KOK.

Experience shows that perpetrators in cases of sexual exploitation frequently misuse the identities of their victims to file fictitious tax returns or conceal income from forced prostitution. This results in significant tax burdens for the victims. The KOK (Commission for the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation) has developed a [document/guideline] on this topic. Legal opinion published, which deals with the tax and tax-related criminal consequences for those affected who had to involuntarily generate income in the context of exploitation.

In a digital lunch talk on December 17, 2025, the expert opinion was presented by the author of the KOK report, attorney Felix Wiesner, and subsequently by a member of the advisory board of the affected persons. specialist counselling center JADWIGA and Dr. Adina Schwartz (board member of KOK and head of JADWIGA) discussed the findings with the participants. In addition to the report, a practical guide is planned, outlining key content for use in counseling. Furthermore, policy recommendations will be derived to address the identified challenges at a structural level.

The 26th Conference of the Alliance against Trafficking in Persons The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) will dedicate its meeting from April 20–21 to… Trafficking in Human Beings for the purpose of Exploitation of criminal acts, a field that has received little research attention so far.

The conference brings together representatives from the 57 OSCE participating States, international organizations, civil society, academia, the private sector, and affected individuals. The focus is on current developments, including new recruitment strategies of criminal networks, the role of digital technologies, and financial flows of exploitative structures. 

The event will take place in a hybrid format at the Hofburg Congress Center in Vienna. Registration for in-person participation is open until March 23, and for online participation until April 13, 2026. 

The conference “Transitional accommodation – protection of queer refugees in state-run accommodations in the light and shadow of the CEAS reform“from LSVD⁺ – Association for Queer Diversity.

The focus is on the protection of queer refugees from violence in state reception centers, perspectives from personal experience, insights into counseling practices, and legal and structural changes resulting from the GEAS reform. In addition to expert presentations, there will be time for exchange on civil society support, self-organization, and concrete protection concepts in accommodations. 

On February 25th, a Round Table Meeting in the BMBFSFJ for the implementation of the Council of Europe Convention against Trafficking in Human Beings in Germany. Around 30 representatives from authorities and civil society, including the KOK and some representatives of the Council of Europe's expert group on combating trafficking in human beings (GRETA) came together to endorse the recommendation of the third evaluation report by GRETA and to discuss the recommendations of the Treaty Committee.

The focus was particularly on victims' access to justice, legal support and compensation, as well as protective measures. Furthermore, the application of the non-punishment principle and measures against [unclear - possibly "abuse" or "violence"] were discussed. labor exploitation, addressing the reduction of demand as well as the improvement of the identification of those affected.

The KOK has a Stellungnahme Published on the draft law of the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection to strengthen psychosocial support during legal proceedings.
The KOK welcomes the planned legal improvements for those affected, but sees particular concerns for those affected by Trafficking in Human Beings There are still gaps. The specific requirements of complex and often lengthy procedures are not adequately considered in the design.

Against this background, the KOK is demanding, among other things, a legal entitlement to psychosocial process support and legal assistance independent of threats of punishment, realistic remuneration, and greater consideration of the possibility of using interpreting services.

The Federal Association of Women's Counseling Centers and Women's Helplines, in its project work to strengthen the rights of victims in criminal proceedings, also points out that confidential, protected counseling settings are a key prerequisite for accessing support and participating in legal proceedings. A lack of legal safeguards for confidentiality can significantly hinder these processes. Furthermore, current legal policy debates increasingly highlight structural barriers in the interaction between criminal proceedings and social work. For example, the German Bar Association, in an initiative statement, calls for... Right to refuse to testify for social work professionals to ensure confidentiality in counseling processes. Especially in sensitive areas such as Trafficking in Human Beings or violence counselling, it is emphasized that a lack of confidentiality can make access to support more difficult and impair the effectiveness of help services. 

On February 27, the Bundestag adopted the law on the adaptation of national law to the reform of the Common European Asylum System (CEAS) and the CEAS Adaptation Follow-up Act in the version recommended by the Committee on Internal Affairs during its second and third readings. amended version  

The changes relate in particular to access to the labor market. Asylum seekers housed in state-run facilities will be entitled to a work permit three months (instead of the previous six) after their asylum application is registered, provided the asylum procedure has not yet been definitively concluded (i.e., including any potential appeals). However, large groups of asylum seekers will not benefit from this regulation, such as so-called Dublin cases or those with tolerated stay status (e.g., from "safe countries of origin"). 

In addition, a Resolution The resolution was adopted, calling on the federal government to consider the right to education and the protection of vulnerable groups when accepting asylum seekers. Access to the regular school system is to be guaranteed in all federal states no later than two months after application, regardless of housing obligations or the status of the asylum procedure. Furthermore, the special protection needs of vulnerable groups are to be identified and taken into account when accommodating the individuals concerned. 
The draft law passed the Federal Council on March 27th and will come into force after its promulgation.

The CEAS Adaptation Act provides for a number of stricter measures, including conducting asylum procedures before entry at the EU's external borders and accelerating these procedures so that decisions on applications are to be made within weeks or even days. The implementation of CEAS in Germany goes beyond EU regulations in some respects. For example, so-called secondary migration centers, where residency is mandatory, are intended to house people whose asylum applications are the responsibility of another EU member state (so-called "Dublin cases") as well as refugees who have already been granted protection status in another EU member state, and where their applications will be processed. These plans are being sharply criticized by civil society organizations, as evidenced by a... appeal Amnesty International and Pro Asyl called on members of parliament to reject the draft laws one day before the debate. 

An overview of the GEAS regulations can be found on the website of the Media Service Integration.   

The final report was published on January 22nd.Needs analysis for the prevention of gender-based and domestic violence“ published. The study was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education, Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMBFSFJ) and prepared by an interdisciplinary research team led by the Social Science Research Institute on Gender Issues and the German Youth Institute.

The aim of the analysis was to gain an overview of existing prevention programs in Germany, to assess their effectiveness, and to identify existing gaps. To this end, prevention measures in 66 municipalities were examined, and assessments from more than 400 professional associations and institutions in the field of violence prevention were included.

The report emphasizes that prevention must be understood as a mandatory state responsibility, particularly within the framework of the Istanbul Convention and the Violence Assistance Act. Among other things, it recommends the development of a cross-departmental national prevention strategy, the needs-based expansion of prevention measures, and reliable funding for protection and counseling services.

At the same time, the study highlights that certain groups have particular protection needs, including refugees and migrant women, as well as LGBTQIA* people. Work with perpetrators and relapse prevention are also identified as important components of an effective prevention strategy.

The US NGO Restore has published the report “Beyond Trauma: The Role of Mental Healthcare in the Post-Trafficking Journey of Adult Survivors" released.
The study examines, among other things, international best practices and interviews with professionals and affected individuals, the extent to which existing support and healthcare systems, particularly in Europe and North America, meet the long-term needs of affected adults. Trafficking in Human Beings satisfy.

According to the report, many support services remain heavily focused on acute crisis intervention and short-term stabilization. Long-term, trauma-informed, and continuous mental health care, on the other hand, is often only available to a limited extent or difficult to access. The report therefore emphasizes the need for a permanently established, trauma-informed, and easily accessible psychosocial support system that places greater emphasis on long-term recovery, stabilization, and social participation. 

Additionally, a “Trauma and Recovery Booklet for Survivors“published, which was developed in collaboration with people who have experienced exploitation firsthand. The brochure contains practical advice on strengthening health, safety and well-being in the process of coping and stabilizing after exploitation.”

The Danish Refugee Council has published the report “Experiences of Return and Reintegration – Voices of Returnees from Denmark to Thailand" released. 

It is based on qualitative interviews with 15 women conducted in Thailand in 2025. Since 2020, a total of 61 women have returned to Thailand from Denmark. They received reintegration support through a joint program of the DRC and Caritas Thailand. The majority of the interviewees had previously been in Denmark as victims of Trafficking in Human Beings, predominantly sexual exploitation, have been identified; a smaller proportion as rejected asylum seekers.

The results show that reintegration is a long-term and complex process. Although the returning women received support in building their own sources of income, for example through small businesses or services, many still report economic insecurity and family obligations. At the same time, some women describe positive developments such as greater independence and increased agency.

A publication by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) highlights the close link between corruption and Trafficking in Human Beings attentive. The report “Hidden Links: Corruption and Human Trafficking“ shows how corrupt practices enable the exploitation of people and undermine existing countermeasures.

According to the report, human trafficking networks often profit from bribery, collaboration, or deliberate inaction by public officials. Corruption can play a role as early as the recruitment and transport of victims, for example, when documents are issued or irregularities at borders are ignored. Even during the exploitation itself, corrupt actors can obstruct investigations, manipulate controls, or tolerate illegal employment.

For those affected, corruption further exacerbates the situation: According to the study, many report encountering indifference or even exploitation of their vulnerability, especially from state agencies that are supposed to offer protection.

To break this cycle, UNODC recommends, among other things, stronger prevention measures against corruption in state institutions, closer linking of human trafficking and corruption investigations, secure reporting mechanisms for victims and whistleblowers, and increased international cooperation in prosecution.

Der "Spotlight Report on Global Migration 2026“The Women in Migration Network and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation analyze current developments in global migration policy in the context of the International Migration Review Forum 2026, which reviews the implementation of the Global Compact for Migration.

The report identifies several structural trends. Central to this is the increasing criminalization of migration and the militarization of borders, with many states shifting their focus from protection and rights to security measures. Border controls are being expanded, sometimes employing military technology, while private security and surveillance companies are increasingly profiting from migration controls.

Another ongoing trend is the externalization of migration controls, for example through agreements with third countries or the outsourcing of asylum procedures. The risk to international refugee protection, particularly with regard to the principle of non-refoulement, is a particular point of criticism.

Furthermore, the report describes the use of digital technologies that lead to an "everywhere border"—for example, through biometric databases, algorithmic risk assessments, or the reading of mobile phones. This can reinforce discriminatory decisions and create new forms of surveillance.

In the Output 05 / 2025 The magazine of the victim support organization White Ring dedicates a special section to the topic. Trafficking in Human BeingsSeveral articles examine different forms of exploitation and place them within current social and criminal policy debates.

At the same time, the article addresses the role of counseling centers, the police, and civil society in identifying and supporting victims. It emphasizes that effectively combating [this/these] Trafficking in Human Beings In addition to prosecution, prevention, awareness-raising and the expansion of protection and support structures are also required. 

The report "EU gender-based violence survey – Evidence for policy and practice“The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) and the European Institute for Gender Equality present comprehensive results of an EU-wide survey on gender-based violence.

In this representative survey of women aged 18 and over regarding their experiences with various forms of gender-based violence, a total of 114.023 women in the 27 EU member states were interviewed. The data was collected between 2020 and 2023 by national statistical offices under the coordination of Eurostat. In the interviews, women were not asked about violence in general terms, but rather about specific acts such as physical assault, sexual harassment, stalking, or violence perpetrated by partners, in order to obtain comparable and reliable data. According to the study, approximately one in three women in the EU has experienced physical and/or sexual violence at some point in her life. Violence occurs particularly frequently in intimate partner contexts. In addition to physical violence, psychological violence (29,9%), economic control by partners, and digital violence are also widespread, but are often less recognized or documented. A large proportion of violence goes unreported; only 6,1% of women report physical or sexual violence perpetrated by partners to the police. Frequently cited reasons include shame, self-reproach, fear, or lack of trust in state institutions.

The study builds on the first EU-wide FRA study on violence against women from 2014, thus enabling for the first time a comparison of developments over about a decade. 

The European Commission has published a preliminary version of the report “Study on the Collection and Improvements of EU Statistics on Trafficking in Human Beings“published. The report was commissioned by the EU's Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs as part of the EU Anti-Trafficking Hub. It analyzes how the 27 EU member states collect data on Trafficking in Human Beings collect, manage and report to Eurostat, the statistical office of the EU.

The aim is to provide an overview of national data collection systems and to examine the extent to which statistical information can be used for... Trafficking in Human Beings within the EU, comparable and reliable data are crucial. The report notes that progress has been made in recent years, particularly through the voluntary reporting procedure to Eurostat, which has contributed to greater methodological clarity and comparability. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain, such as differing definitions and counting methods, incomplete datasets, and fragmented responsibilities between authorities.

The Federal Association of Women's Counseling Centers and Women's Helplines (bff) has planned a [missing word - likely "service"] at the beginning of 2026. Policy Papers Published on the implementation of the Digital Services Act (DSA), the analysis, based on feminist platform monitoring, shows that large online platforms are currently failing to adequately meet their obligations regarding risk analysis, risk mitigation, and accessible reporting channels for gender-based digital violence.

The study examined risk reports from major social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Snapchat, as well as from pornographic platforms like Pornhub, XVideos, and Stripchat. The monitoring revealed several key problem areas: platforms often define gender-based violence too narrowly, give insufficient consideration to the connections between digital and analog violence, and present their risk analyses with limited transparency. The policy paper therefore formulates concrete recommendations for a gender-equitable, intersectional, and user-centered implementation of the Data Security Framework (DSA). 

In addition, the bff and HateAid have filed a complaint with the Federal Network Agency. Compliant Complaints have been filed against several major platforms. They accuse the platforms of failing to provide, or failing to provide sufficiently accessible, electronic contact points for users, despite this being mandatory under Article 12 of the Data Protection Act. For victims of image-based digital violence, such as the distribution of sexualized deepfakes or stolen intimate images, quick and direct contact with the platforms is crucial. The complaint thus underscores the practical relevance of the shortcomings identified in the policy paper.

The Global Alliance Against Traffic in Women (GAATW) launched a new [initiative/initiative] in January. Message published a critical analysis of the criminal law approach to combating Trafficking in Human Beings analyzed. The global network of which the KOK is a member presents here the results of an international consultation in November 2025 with academics, activists and practitioners from the field of anti-trafficking work.

The report takes stock 25 years after the UN Protocol on Trafficking in Human Beings came into force and notes that the strong focus on prosecuting and punishing perpetrators often does not lead to the desired results. 

Against this background, alternative approaches are being discussed, such as restorative justice approaches, community-based support structures, or health-oriented approaches that focus more on recovery, safety, recognition, and self-determination for those affected. This aims to open up new perspectives for a human rights-based and victim-centered approach to combating [unspecified issue]. Trafficking in Human Beings be developed.

The report "A wicked problem“The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights points to the extent of Trafficking in Human Beings in online fraud centers in Southeast Asia. 

People are recruited through fraudulent job offers and then taken to so-called scam compound centers, where they are forced to participate in cyber-based fraud operations. Those affected report serious human rights violations, including... Forced labour, violence and deprivation of liberty.
The analysis is based, among other things, on interviews with 19 victims from various regions of the world who were exploited in fraud centers in countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and the Philippines between 2021 and 2025. These interviews were supplemented by further witness accounts, interviews with experts, and the evaluation of media and research reports.

In addition to the need for better support and protective measures for victims, particular emphasis is placed on prevention along the recruitment channels through which people fall into these fraudulent structures.

A Summary report The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) highlights the central role of National Anti-Trafficking Coordinators for effective state-led combating of Trafficking in Human Beings Hervor.

The OSCE emphasizes that strong national coordination is crucial for effectively bringing together the various actors, including law enforcement agencies, labor inspectorates, social services, healthcare providers, and civil society. National coordinators are responsible for guiding the development and implementation of national strategies, improving inter-agency cooperation, and strengthening international collaboration.

At the same time, the OSCE recommends that this function be placed at a high level within the government, given a comprehensive mandate for all forms of human trafficking, and clearly separated from other mechanisms such as the National Rapporteur. 

The policy paper “Working in Germany – Fair recruitment, preventing exploitation“The Friedrich Ebert Foundation shows that the risk of labor exploitation This often begins in the country of origin, for example through misleading promises, high placement fees, or a lack of information about rights and working conditions in the destination country. Migrant workers from third countries are particularly affected and can become trapped in dependent relationships as a result.

The focus is on how fair recruitment can be strengthened throughout the entire migration process. Key approaches include stricter regulation of recruitment agencies, better education in the country of origin, and closer international cooperation. The National Action Plan against labor exploitation and Forced labour is highlighted as an important framework.

The Women's Shelter Coordination Association (FHK) published its final report on March 19th.Digital (ex-)partner violence: closing dangerous protection gaps in the support system“published and calls for a structural expansion of support services.

The report makes it clear that digital violence is an integral part of (former) intimate partner violence and can persist even after a stay in a women's shelter, for example through tracking, monitoring of online accounts, or the misuse of digital technologies. The report is based on experiences from a two-year pilot project in which external IT specialists supported women's shelters in over 60 cases involving suspected digital surveillance. The conclusion: Technical assistance is effective but must be closely integrated with psychosocial counseling.

The FHK therefore calls for fixed staffing levels for digital violence in women's shelters, the expansion of specialized specialised counselling centres and closer cooperation with IT experts, the judiciary, and the police. Without reliable funding, significant gaps in the support system remain.

The defendant used the "loverboy" method to force a nearly 18-year-old girl into prostitution over several months, and also repeatedly raped and physically abused her. The Berlin Regional Court convicted him in its ruling of [date]. 14 November 2025 the defendant was charged with rape in four cases, ZwangsprostitutionThe defendant was sentenced to six years and six months' imprisonment for pimping and assault, and ordered to pay €24.320 to the plaintiff. The court provided explanations regarding the calculation of the damages.

The decision can provide assistance in arguing in similar cases, particularly with regard to compensation for pain and suffering.

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The EU Victims' Protection Directive (Victims' Rights Directive, 2012/29/EU) sets minimum standards across Europe for the rights, protection and support of victims of crime, and explicitly includes those affected by Trafficking in Human Beings one. In 2023, the European Commission has a Reform of the directive The proposed reforms aim to close existing gaps in protection and enforce the rights of data subjects more effectively across Europe. On December 10, 25, the Council and the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement on the reform proposals, which now needs to be formally adopted.

The agreement was supported by victim support organizations such as Victim Support Europe and PIC extensionKOK welcomes the updated policy, which is part of the European Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants, of which it is a member. The updated policy brings significant improvements that will make it easier for victims to report crimes, access important information, and obtain professional support.

Key reform approaches include:

Stronger rights to information and simplified access

Those affected are not always sufficiently informed about their rights or are prevented from exercising their rights by unsuitable information. This particularly affects vulnerable groups such as children, people with disabilities, or those who are illiterate. The amendment to the directive aims to provide affected individuals with low-threshold, accessible, and, where necessary, multilingual information early and proactively. For those affected by Trafficking in Human Beings This is essential because many people avoid contact with authorities and are unaware of their rights due to language barriers, fear of authorities, or dependence on perpetrators. 

Reporting criminal offenses

The reform proposal emphasizes the need for easily accessible and user-friendly reporting channels. It also refers to the possibility of third-party reporting. The text obliges Member States to promote cooperation between competent authorities and organizations that are likely to receive information about crimes. Member States are also required to take the necessary measures to ensure that third-country nationals, regardless of their residency status, are not deterred from reporting a crime and are treated without discrimination.

Improved access to support and protection measures

Currently, it is also problematic that those affected do not always receive an early assessment of their protection needs, and effective protective measures such as protection orders are lacking. According to the reform plans, those affected should now receive early and specialized support as well as free, confidential counselling services, regardless of whether a complaint has been filed. This is especially important for those affected by Trafficking in Human Beings This point is crucial, as access to support is practically linked to the willingness to cooperate and testify in criminal proceedings. Furthermore, protective measures should be better tailored to individual circumstances such as intimidation, contact bans, or special precautions during interrogations. For those affected by Trafficking in Human BeingsFor those who are frequently exposed to massive threats, such an individual risk analysis is particularly important.

Legal aid

Member States may, under the reformed directive, conduct a means test, a merit test, or both to support victims with legal aid. The means test takes into account income, assets, family situation, legal costs, standard of living, and any potential dependence on perpetrators. The merit test assesses the seriousness of the crime, the complexity of the case, and the severity of the harm suffered.

Improved rights in criminal proceedings

Plans also include regulations to prevent secondary victimization and traumatization. These include sensitive and, where possible, single interviews, the use of specially trained professionals, the protection of privacy and sensitive data, and improved communication about the status of the proceedings. For those affected by Trafficking in Human BeingsFor those who are currently often questioned multiple times and whose credibility is regularly challenged, this could mean a noticeable improvement. However, this requires that police, public prosecutors, and courts at the national level receive appropriate training and awareness programs.

Access to compensation

Access to compensation has proven difficult in practice, as victims receive no state support in enforcing their claims to the awarded compensation, and procedures are often lengthy, complex, and difficult for victims to understand. The new draft calls on Member States to support victims in enforcing court-awarded compensation, although the wording is weaker than in the Commission's original proposal. Furthermore, Member States are to pre-finance a portion of the awarded compensation so that victims are not dependent on the perpetrators' willingness to pay or on the availability of assets.

Significance for those affected by Trafficking in Human Beings in Germany

The reform of the EU Victims' Rights Directive strengthens key rights for victims of Trafficking in Human Beings Particularly relevant are information, protection, specialized support, and protection from retraumatization. At the same time, experience shows that minimum legal standards alone are insufficient. In Germany, structural challenges persist, such as the nationwide identification of victims, regionally varying access to counseling, and uncertainties regarding residency status. To guarantee comprehensive protection, sufficient financial resources, clear responsibilities, and mandatory training at the institutional level are essential. Only if the rights of victims are guaranteed regardless of residency status, willingness to testify, or the stage of proceedings can the reform guarantee effective, human rights-based protection for all victims of crime.

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