European Commission launches new strategy to combat human trafficking

The European Commission has introduced a new strategy to combat human trafficking across the European Union, responding to a 16.1% increase in registered victims during 2023 and 2024. Official data shows over 20,000 victims were recorded during this period.

The strategy is built upon six key priorities: leveraging modern technology for detection and investigation, increasing cooperation with the private sector and labor inspectors, intensifying actions against organized crime, managing migration-related risks, improving crisis preparedness, and strengthening victim protection.

Demographic data highlights specific patterns of exploitation. Women and girls accounted for 63% of registered victims, primarily through sexual exploitation, while children represented 15%. Conversely, men made up 74% of victims identified in cases of labor exploitation.