Victims of human trafficking to benefit from greater protection and faster assistance

Victims and presumed victims of human trafficking will be able to receive support and protection more quickly. The Government has approved amendments that will allow authorities to intervene faster, provide assistance, and better protect affected individuals.

One of the main changes is that initial support will no longer depend on the person’s status in a criminal proceeding. Authorities will be able to intervene when there are reasonable indications that a person has been subjected to exploitation.

Victims will also benefit from more safeguards during procedures. They will be included in the category of vulnerable persons, and their hearings will take place with additional protections, including in the presence of a defense lawyer and, where appropriate, a psychologist.

At the same time, social assistance will be provided according to each person’s needs. Victims will be able to benefit from placement in specialized centers, individual rehabilitation plans, and free medical and psychiatric services. Additional protection measures are provided for child victims of human trafficking. If there is a conflict of interest with the parents, a legal representative will be appointed immediately.

The draft also provides for tougher penalties for serious cases of human trafficking. At the same time, the forms of exploitation recognized by law are updated, including by adding situations related to the use of information and communication technologies.

The draft introduces the position of National Coordinator, the creation of an integrated statistical data system, and the designation of a single point of contact for cross-border cases.

The new provisions aim to ensure faster interventions, better services for victims, and more effective coordination between institutions.