Victims of Human Trafficking in Asylum and Reception

The situational update highlights developments at both the national and EU levels regarding the protection of asylum applicants who are victims of human trafficking. Asylum seekers, refugees, and other forcibly displaced individuals are particularly vulnerable to trafficking due to their precarious circumstances, necessitating special attention and procedural safeguards within the asylum process.

In 2022, efforts to combat human trafficking remained a key focus, especially as trafficking patterns evolved. The Russian invasion of Ukraine, along with the increased online activities and the use of dangerous routes by traffickers have complicated efforts to identify and protect victims. The situation exacerbated as large numbers of displaced persons, particularly women and children, who were at heightened risk of trafficking.

This situational report will be a new update on the developments at the national and EU levels related to protecting asylum applicants who are victims of human trafficking.