IOM's Simulation-Based Training in Human Trafficking Investigations: From Theory to Practice
Training of trainers in Budva, Montenegro, 2024. IOM
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is at the forefront in the global fight against human trafficking and migrant smuggling. IOM leads numerous initiatives across regions to protect vulnerable individuals, support investigation and prosecution of human traffickers and smugglers and promote safe and orderly migration.
Over the past years, IOM has been implementing an innovative practice in the Western Balkans: simulation exercise/trainings aimed at strengthening the capacities of both law enforcement officials (crime police, prosecution, border police, etc.) and service providers to effectively investigate and prosecute human trafficking and migrant smuggling while focusing on victim centred and protection sensitive approaches. This initiative is a key part of IOM's broader strategy to enhance regional cross-border cooperation and ensure effective criminal prosecution of human traffickers and smugglers, while promoting rights-based practices of law enforcement officials.
The simulation exercise/training provides an innovative learning method that complements traditional lectures. Through simulated scenarios, participants engage in decision-making in a risk-free environment. During the exercises and by active engagement through role play, participants apply their knowledge and skills through practical activities, fostering a deeper understanding of their roles and responsibilities within the system, particularly in the context of mixed migration flows.
The simulations are carefully crafted to closely mirror real-world scenarios portraying human traffickers, smugglers, and victims, creating a realistic and immersive experience. They include written tasks, role plays and collaborative activities that require participants to plan and execute investigations, protect victims, and share operational knowledge and evidence effectively. This method not only reinforces theoretical knowledge but also prepares participants for the dynamic challenges they may encounter in their roles.
“I believe this training is very useful, not only for myself but for all colleagues who participated especially because practical experiences were shared and not only the theoretical, in particular the simulation of interviewing children victims”, concluded a participant from North Macedonia.
The simulations help participants develop crucial skills in information gathering, victim-centred and protection sensitive interviewing skills, inter-institutional communication, and decision-making. They learn to prioritize activities, conduct parallel investigations, and provide special protection and assistance to the victims of human trafficking throughout entirety of the investigative processes.
The multidisciplinary approach brings together prosecutors, police investigators, social workers, and migration authorities, at both national and interregional level, fostering a collaborative environment for learning and improvement. Effective communication and cooperation within and across participants lead to quicker information exchange, better coordination, and more robust investigations. “I believe that such simulation exercises are extremely useful for professionals working in this field, especially since all sectors included in the referral mechanism are participating”, noted one participant.
By fostering teamwork and practical application with strong emphasis of respect and upholding victim’s rights and needs, the training methodology not only enhances their capabilities but also ensures compliance with international legal instruments on combating human trafficking. Rights based and participatory elements are at the core of these simulation-based exercises as they integrate the experiences of the victims to effectively address and meet victims’ rights and needs taking into account age, gender, cultural differentiations, etc.
For more info please contact IOM Bosnia and Herzegovina at iomsjjmission@iom.int.