OSCE and IOM training enables Ukrainian experts to combat human trafficking

On May 30, 2024, the last simulation exercise on combating human trafficking took place in the Lviv region, concluding the two-year comprehensive training initiative of the OSCE Support Program for Ukraine and the IOM Representation in Ukraine.

Over the past two years, 240 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, labor inspectors, social workers and NGO representatives from all regions of Ukraine and Kyiv took part in a series of eight simulation exercises. The exercises aimed to strengthen cooperation and collaboration between national actors in the field of combating human trafficking, following a victim-centered and human rights-based approach, while investigating these crimes and providing necessary assistance to survivors.

The methodology, developed by the office of the OSCE Special Representative and Coordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, is based on realistic scenarios involving cases of labor and sexual exploitation. Participants improved their abilities to investigate crimes related to human trafficking, accurately identify victims and provide appropriate support while ensuring their rights are protected.

Pierre Baussand, Head of Operations of the OSCE Secretariat's extra-budgetary support program for Ukraine, highlights the effectiveness of the initiative: “Simulation exercises provide a unique opportunity to practice essential skills in an environment safe as well as establishing links at the regional level. necessary to provide rapid and professional support to those who have suffered from this crime. And we are very happy to hear about successful cooperation between law enforcement and labor inspectors in the Lviv region after our simulation exercise.

One of the strengths of the training is its adaptability. The exercise scenario was adapted to reflect the contemporary challenges of the Ukrainian context, including those posed by the war. This helped ensure that Ukrainian law enforcement and social workers remained effective in combating human trafficking in an ever-changing landscape, with the capacity to address specific threats arising from the conflict.

“The fight against human trafficking remains one of the main priorities of the Ukrainian National Police,” said Andriy Nebytov, Deputy Chief of the Ukrainian National Police and Head of the Criminal Police. “Given the war, this phenomenon presents increased risks. Awareness is the best way to prevent and combat it. Therefore, we are continually improving our knowledge to address this problem more effectively. These trainings cover best practices in investigation of human trafficking crimes, including those committed using cyber technologies. Simulation exercises conducted by the OSCE have helped to increase our effectiveness in detecting these crimes, strengthening communication. with other actors of the National Referral Mechanism for Victims of Trafficking and to strengthen the international partnership in this area.

The simulation training was first delivered by the Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Coordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings in November 2016 in Vicenza, Italy. Since then, interactive training methods that replicate real-life situations have become a stable practice within OSCE projects globally.