Regional Conference on Addressing Trafficking in Persons for Sexual and Labour Exploitation in South-Eastern Europe: Challenges, Promising Practices, and the Role of Modern Technology
Introduction
Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that affects millions worldwide, and South-Eastern Europe is no exception. The region faces a complex landscape of exploitation, with traffickers increasingly leveraging modern technology to perpetrate their crimes. Recognizing the urgent need for a coordinated response, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in collaboration with the Croatian government and supported by the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, organized a pivotal Regional Conference in Dubrovnik on March 27-28, 2023. This gathering aimed to address the multifaceted challenges of trafficking for sexual and labor exploitation while exploring innovative practices and the role of technology in combating this issue.
The Urgency of Action
Opening the conference, Danilo Rizzi, UNODC’s Regional Representative, emphasized the importance of moving beyond dialogue to actionable strategies. He highlighted the dual nature of technology, which can serve as both a tool for exploitation and a means of prevention. Rizzi’s call to action resonated throughout the conference, urging participants to transform their commitments into concrete measures that can effectively combat trafficking.
Alan Tahiri, Croatia’s National Anti-Trafficking Coordinator, reinforced this sentiment by framing trafficking as a “moral test” for societies. He poignantly reminded attendees that behind the statistics are real lives—women, children, and workers—whose voices have been silenced. This emphasis on humanizing the issue served as a powerful motivator for participants to collaborate and innovate in their approaches to trafficking.
Exploring Trends and Challenges
Over the course of two days, the conference delved into the evolving trends of trafficking, particularly focusing on sexual and labor exploitation. A significant portion of the discussions centered on the ways digital platforms are being exploited by traffickers for recruitment, control, and exploitation of victims. Participants shared insights on the challenges posed by these modern methods, including underreporting and the limited capacity of institutions to respond effectively.
The rise of labor trafficking, especially among vulnerable populations such as migrants and children, was a critical topic. The discussions highlighted the need for a comprehensive understanding of the changing patterns of exploitation, which are often exacerbated by socio-economic factors and the misuse of technology by traffickers.
Harnessing Technology for Good
While technology poses challenges, it also offers promising solutions in the fight against trafficking. Participants engaged in discussions about how modern tools can be harnessed for proactive investigations, digital evidence collection, and enhanced cross-border coordination. The conference showcased examples of successful initiatives where technology has been effectively integrated into anti-trafficking efforts, demonstrating that innovation can play a crucial role in protecting victims and preventing exploitation.
A recurring theme was the necessity of shifting from reactive responses to proactive prevention and protection systems. This involves creating survivor-centered approaches that are aware of technological advancements and built on trust among various institutions. By sharing national experiences, participants illuminated both the gaps in current practices and the promising strategies that have emerged across the region.
Building Momentum for Cooperation
The conference served as more than just a platform for dialogue; it was a catalyst for building momentum toward sustained cooperation among stakeholders. Participants emphasized the importance of tailored regional initiatives that strengthen connections between governments, civil society, the private sector, and international organizations. The call for collaboration underscored the understanding that combating trafficking requires a united front and a multifaceted approach.
UNODC remains committed to advancing these efforts through upcoming technical workshops across the region. These workshops will further develop and apply the lessons and strategies discussed in Dubrovnik, ensuring that the momentum generated at the conference translates into tangible actions.
Conclusion
As the conference concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and urgency. The challenges posed by traffickers—who are increasingly organized and well-funded—demand an equally coordinated, creative, and committed response from all sectors of society. The insights gained and the connections forged during the conference represent a significant step forward in the fight against trafficking in South-Eastern Europe. By leveraging technology and fostering collaboration, stakeholders can work together to reclaim the voices of victims and build a future free from exploitation.