Combating human trafficking, safe migration and support for victims: Liudmyla Shemelynets discusses cooperation priorities with IOM

The Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine hosted a meeting between First Deputy Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity Liudmyla Shemelynets, and Alexander Philip Bartoloni, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Ukraine, and representatives of the IOM Protection Programme.

The parties discussed further cooperation on combating human trafficking, safe migration and protecting victims, including under IOM's new project to strengthen the protection of vulnerable groups in Ukraine.

During the meeting, Liudmyla Shemelynets noted that the full-scale war and forced displacement of Ukrainians have heightened the risks of human trafficking, exploitation and violence. At the same time, the state continues to develop its victim protection system, including under the State Targeted Social Programme on Combating Human Trafficking until 2030, approved by the Government.

"We must do everything we can so that people are not afraid to speak about violence, exploitation or human trafficking and know where to turn for help. Today we are already seeing society's attitude to violence change: people talk about it more openly, learn to recognize violations of their personal boundaries and defend their rights. The same change is needed in combating human trafficking. It is important that everyone can recognize danger in time, is not afraid to contact law enforcement and is confident of receiving the support they need," Liudmyla Shemelynets stressed.

Participants also stressed the importance of prevention and awareness-raising to inform people about the risks of human trafficking and exploitation. The Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity is implementing the "Does This Look Familiar to Me?" information campaign together with IOM.

Particular attention was paid to protecting Ukrainians abroad. The Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity proposed jointly developing a comprehensive approach to informing and identifying citizens who may be in exploitative situations or in need of protection.

Another important area will be developing helplines. This includes specialized training for operators, including those of the government hotline, so they can better recognize risks and promptly refer people to the services they need.

Training specialists will also be a key part of the project. Interdisciplinary trainings and other educational activities are planned for representatives of government bodies and civil society organizations. This will help improve the identification of trafficking cases, coordination between services and support for victims.

In addition, the Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity is interested in IOM's expert support in improving legislation and putting the measures of the State Targeted Social Programme on Combating Human Trafficking until 2030 into practice, including in line with European Union standards.

The Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity presented the State Targeted Social Programme on Combating Human Trafficking until 2030, which the Government approved in September this year.