Combating human trafficking
In 2003, the Organization set up the Office and post of Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings to help participating States develop and implement effective policies for combating human trafficking. The Office of the Special Representative ensures co-ordination of the OSCE’s efforts in combating trafficking in human beings across all three dimensions of the OSCE and acts as a focal point for the OSCE’s efforts in this area. It assists participating States in the implementation of OSCE commitments through technical assistance and capacity-building. It also conducts research and helps develop policies on persistent and emerging trends in the field of human trafficking.
The OSCE Action Plan to Combat Trafficking in Human Beings provides the framework for OSCE activities in support of the anti-trafficking efforts of OSCE participating States. It contains core commitments for action at the national level, known as the “3 Ps”:
- Prevention, including addressing root causes and awareness-raising;
- Prosecution, including investigation and adjudication ; and
- Protection of victims’ rights, including assistance and compensation.
In 2013, the OSCE added a fourth “P” - partnerships - highlighting the need for enhanced co-operation with international organizations and other external partners, including on issues related to law enforcement, National Referral Mechanisms (NRMs) and joint work between public institutions and the private sector.
A number of OSCE field operations participate in this work and help strengthen the capacity of national and local authorities, as well as civil society organizations, in preventing human trafficking, strengthening prosecution efforts by training law enforcement agencies and other practitioners, and assisting victims.
