Calling for A Victim-Centered Approach to Human Trafficking
Monday, March 7, 2005 11:55 AM
Helga Konrad, the OSCE Special Representative on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, is calling for the adoption of a more victim-centered approach to fighting trafficking. Ms. Konrad is also urging OSCE countries to allow victims an extended stay within the country into which they were trafficked. In support of her position, she notes that around 50% of victims who are immediately expelled are “re-cycled” by traffickers and become re-victimized. Among the fifty-five OSCE States, Italy is currently the only country offering victims an extended stay and work opportunities. Italy has reported a tenfold increase in the number of court cases brought against traffickers within the first year of implementation of the new victim-centered legislation. Ms. Konrad urges states to change from the traditional law-enforcement approach to a victim-centered approach in order to effectively fight human trafficking. Compiled from: Special Representative calls on OSCE States to issue residence permits, OSCE Online, 28 February 2005.