The Council of Europe’s Group of Experts on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA) has issued its second report on human trafficking conditions in Albania. According to the report, the country has improved its legislative framework for combatting human trafficking, including by imposing tougher criminal penalties. Albania has also adopted provisions allowing foreign-born victims a recovery and reflection period and the opportunity to apply for a residence permit. However, trafficking-related convictions are very low and reporting of trafficking-related crimes is also low. The report recommends that Albania take more action to prevent trafficking, including by combatting violence and other forms of discrimination against women. The report also recommended that Albanian authorities do more to proactively identify and protect trafficking victims as well as persons, particularly children, who are at risk of being trafficked. GRETA urged authorities to facilitate compensation of trafficking victims and to protect victims and during all phases of criminal proceedings.
Compiled from: Publication of GRETA's second report on Albania, Council of Europe News (March 6, 2016).