Mr. Thomas Hammarberg, Commissioner for Human Rights for the Council of Europe spoke recently about the importance of addressing the root causes of trafficking in humans and of applying human rights standards for all victims receiving services, including undocumented migrants. He articulated the importance of allowing undocumented migrants to have a fair trial. Many undocumented migrants who are victims of trafficking are afraid to report their abuse to authorities, as they fear they will be ignored or deported. Mr. Hammarberg recognizes gender inequality, poverty, unemployment, abuse and marginalisation as well known root causes of trafficking. He also recognizes the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings as a comprehensive treaty to combat trafficking and notes its importance in protecting victims and prosecuting criminals. The Convention has not entered into force, though, as only Moldova, Romania and Austria and Albania have ratified it. Mr. Hammarberg calls on the rest of the Council members to ratify the treaty "as an urgent and necessary first step forward."
To read the viewpoint in its entirety, click here.
Compiled from, "Prevent trafficking in human beings by addressing the root causes, Viewpoint from Mr. Thomas Hammarberg, Commissioner for Human Rights, European Council. 19 February 2007.