BRUSSELS, Belgium / RankWire.AI / – The European Commission has announced a comprehensive six-pillar approach aimed at combating human trafficking as the number of registered victims across the European Union continues to increase. On Friday, October 16, the European Commission introduced this new plan, just two days prior to EU Anti-Trafficking Day. Over 20,000 victims were recorded in the EU in 2023 and 2024, representing a 16.1% rise. Officials emphasize that numerous cases likely remain unreported and concealed.
According to the European Commission, traffickers persist in targeting individuals in vulnerable circumstances. Women and girls make up 63% of the documented victims, primarily exploited sexually. Children constitute 15%. Meanwhile, 74% of the victims trafficked for labour exploitation are men. The criminal activities also include forced criminality, compelled begging, and forced marriages. The Commission states that the EU must adapt its strategies to address the increasing volume of trafficking cases effectively.
Magnus Brunner, the Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, affirmed that the new strategy aims to hold traffickers accountable and dismantle their networks. He highlighted that victims will be safeguarded and emphasized that no one should be for sale. This initiative replaces the EU strategy for 2021 to 2025. It complements the updated Anti-Trafficking Directive, which national governments are required to incorporate into national law by July 15, 2026. The directive also expanded the scope of trafficking offences to include forced marriage and illegal adoption.
Technology and corporate collaboration form the backbone of the plan
The first pillar leverages advanced technology to identify trafficking activities early. Criminals increasingly rely on digital platforms to recruit, promote, and control victims. The European Commission urges online platforms, banks, and payment service providers to assist in detecting suspicious behaviors. The second pillar emphasizes strengthening cooperation with the private sector. An upcoming European coalition of companies against trafficking will aim to reduce exploitation risks and enhance early case detection.
The third pillar focuses on breaking apart transnational organized crime networks. Law enforcement agencies will depend on international crime cooperation, intelligence-driven investigations, financial asset tracing, and criminal asset recovery. The expansion of joint investigation teams supported by Europol and Eurojust is planned. The fourth pillar concentrates on addressing exploitation linked to migration. It aims to improve screening processes, border and asylum procedures, and protections within reception facilities. The goal is to identify victims earlier along migration routes into the EU.
Strategy review to involve Parliament and Council
The fifth pillar enhances preventative measures, readiness, and swift response capabilities during crises. The European Commission will develop guidance to identify trafficking risks in future emergencies. The sixth pillar is dedicated to strengthening the protection of vulnerable groups. It emphasizes safeguarding victims’ rights during investigations and court proceedings, as well as fostering cooperation with partner nations and international organizations. The pillar also includes bolstering support services for victims.
Now, the European Parliament and the Council will scrutinize the proposed strategy. The EU Anti-Trafficking Coordinator will collaborate with national coordinators to implement these measures. The Commission described the six pillars as a coordinated, forward-looking response to the crime. The plan was introduced ahead of EU Anti-Trafficking Day, observed annually on October 18, with national authorities taking primary responsibility for local implementation.