Ecorys supports the launch of the EU Anti-Trafficking Hub

The European Commission has launched the EU Anti-Trafficking Hub. The platform is being supported by a consortium of external partners, headed by consultancy firm Ecorys.

Human trafficking remains a big issue in regions around the world – and the EU is no exception. European countries tend to more often be the country of destination for trafficked individuals, with most trafficking related to sexual exploitation and labor exploitation. Last year, more than 450 arrests were made and millions in euro’s were seized in relation to human trafficking, according to the European Council.

The objective of the EU Anti-Trafficking Hub is to contribute to the development of EU policies in combatting and preventing trafficking and protecting its victims, with the end goal of establishing an EU Anti-Trafficking Directive. It will also set best practices and foster cooperation among experts and practitioners in the field of trafficking in human beings.

Ecorys was tasked with leading the implementation of the services, working with other organizations including La Strada International, HEUNI, CEPS, and ERA in assisting the EU Anti-Trafficking Coordinator and the European Commission to set up and operate the Hub for the coming four years.

The Hub was officially launched on 5 June during a meeting of the National Anti-trafficking Coordinators and Rapporteurs. It is an important part of the larger goals set out in the 2021–2025 EU Strategy on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, an initiative within the scope of combatting organized crime.

Part of the purpose of the Hub is to support the EU Anti-Trafficking Coordinator in its goal to prevent trafficking, protect victims, and ensure better enforcement. The Hub will function as a collaborative platform working closely with authorities, civil society, and other stakeholders. It will mainly conduct research, analysis, and give advice. It will also serve as a platform for dialogue and exchange.

“Trafficking in human beings is a crime that should have no place in our societies. Yet, criminals continue to traffic victims, mainly women and children, and mostly for sexual exploitation,” said Ylva Johansson, former commissioner for home affairs.

“We owe the victims protection, and we need to bring to justice the perpetrators who treat human beings as a commodity. We will look at the rules in place to check if they are still fit for purpose and we will assess the possibility of criminalizing the use of exploited services from trafficking victims.”