#HumanTrafficking: Commission sets out priorities to step up EU action

The European Commission has put forward a list of concrete actions to better prevent the trafficking in human beings. Building on the EU strategy and in light of recent migratory, economic and security challenges, the priorities set out by the Commission today identify key areas that require immediate action from the EU and member states to disrupt the modus operandi of traffickers, strengthen victims' rights and intensify internal and external efforts.

Migration, Citizenship and Home Affairs Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos said: “It is not acceptable that in the 21^st century human beings are still being trafficked as commodities and exploited – not in Europe, not anywhere. Over the years the EU has developed legal and operational tools against this heinous crime. But more needs to be done as the migration crisis and transnational security threats have rendered people more vulnerable to criminal networks and exploitation. I call on all member states to urgently step up their investigations and prosecutions against ruthless trafficking criminals, better protect the victims and fully apply the EU rules towards their protection. I also call on all to work more closely with international partners. Human trafficking is not just a European problem – we must do everything to eradicate it everywhere it happens."

The Commission will monitor progress on the actions set out in the Communication that has been presented and report on progress to the European Parliament and the Council by the end of 2018.

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