Stara Zagora to host interactive human trafficking prevention initiative

Stara Zagora will host the “Escape Truck Bulgaria 2026” initiative on September 24, 2026. This mobile, interactive escape room is designed to raise awareness about the risks of human trafficking and various forms of exploitation.

Participants will enter a specially equipped vehicle in small groups of up to six people. They will navigate scenarios inspired by real-life cases of exploitation, solving tasks and codes to uncover the story of a person caught in such a situation. The program aims to teach young people how to recognize recruitment mechanisms and warning signs. Following the experience, participants can consult with experts to receive practical guidance on identifying dangers and seeking help.

This is the second year the initiative has visited Bulgaria. In 2025, the program reached over 1,500 participants across 13 events in 11 cities. The 2026 national tour includes 10 cities, with Stara Zagora serving as the fourth stop. The initiative is organized by the National Commission for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings in partnership with the RESHAPE Foundation, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, UNICEF Bulgaria, the Center for Democracy Research, and the British Council, with support from the International Organization for Migration, the Bulgarian Youth Red Cross, the Open Space Foundation, and the Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria.