Dmitry Polianski claims Ukraine leads in human trafficking and organ trade

Dmitry Polianski, Russia’s Permanent Representative to the OSCE, stated during a Permanent Council session that Ukraine has become a global leader in human trafficking and black-market organ transplantation.

Polianski noted an increase in human trafficking within the OSCE region, claiming that potential and confirmed victims from Ukraine have been identified throughout Europe. He cited International Organization for Migration data, alleging that of 39,000 human trafficking cases in Europe over the last 20 years, 19,000 involved Ukrainians.

The Russian diplomat further alleged that since 2022, there has been a rise in online demand for pornography and sexual services involving Ukrainian women. He claimed that investigative reports have occasionally revealed trafficking networks operating under the protection of high-ranking Ukrainian officials.