Update: 12.05.2014
Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings
Official Text
The Council of Europe has among its member countries of origin, transit and destination of the victims of trafficking. Trafficking in human beings constitutes a violation of human rights and an offence to the dignity and the integrity of the person. As far as the individual is concerned, trafficking undermines the principle of equal dignity for all human beings. At society level, it constitutes a modern form of slavery and questions the rule of law and fundamental democratic values.
The Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings came into force on 1 February 2008 and focuses mainly on the protection of victims of trafficking and the safeguard of their rights. It also aims at preventing trafficking and prosecuting traffickers. In addition, the Convention provides for the setting up of an effective and independent monitoring mechanism capable of controlling the implementation of the obligations contained in the Convention.
The Convention applies to all forms of trafficking; whether national or transnational, whether or not related to organised crime. It applies whoever the victim (women, men or children) and whatever the form of exploitation (sexual exploitation, forced labour or services).
Further Information
- Council of Europe - Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings
- US Department of State – Trafficking in Persons Report
- Organisation for Security and Co-Operation in Europe – Combating Human Trafficking
- UN Office on Drugs and Crime, Trafficking in Persons: Analysis on Europe, October 2009 (pdf, 25 p.)
- European Commission – Fight Against Trafficking in Human Beings
- Comp.Act – European Action for Compensation for Trafficked Persons
- Interpol – Trafficking in Human Beings
