Promising Approaches — Addressing Child Trafficking in Europe and Eurasia

According to available data, an estimated 1.2 million children are at risk of trafficking in the region. The majority of victims are between the ages of 12 and 17, with girls being disproportionately affected. Trafficked children often come from vulnerable backgrounds, including poverty, lack of education, and social exclusion. They are frequently recruited through false promises of employment or education, and are then subjected to various forms of exploitation, including forced labor, sex trafficking, and organ removal. Efforts to assist and protect trafficked children in the region are hindered by a lack of resources, inadequate laws and policies, and insufficient coordination among governments and organizations. Identifying trafficked children and providing them with services is a significant challenge, as many victims are hidden from view and may be reluctant to seek help. Despite these challenges, there are promising approaches to preventing child trafficking in Europe and Eurasia. Raising awareness about the issue and its consequences is critical, as is expanding access to education and improving outcomes for vulnerable children. Encouraging safe migration and decreasing the vulnerability of children raised in institutions are also essential strategies. In addition, improving child protection mechanisms and empowering children and families economically can help to prevent trafficking. The report recommends that governments and organizations perform due diligence to identify child victims of trafficking and children vulnerable to trafficking, improve the effectiveness of social services and assistance, and strengthen the social work profession. The report also emphasizes the need to increase the availability and reliability of data on child trafficking, as well as to improve the coordination and cooperation among governments and organizations in the region. By working together, it is possible to prevent child trafficking and protect the rights of vulnerable children in Europe and Eurasia.