Preventing and combating trafficking in human beings, and protecting victims

The Council agreed on a general approach regarding a directive aimed at strengthening the fight against trafficking in human beings and the protection of victims.

In March 2010, the Commission adopted its proposal on the file. Once adopted, the new rules will replace framework decision 2002/629/JHA. The goal is to further approximate national legislation and to improve international law enforcement and judicial cooperation. The provisions of the future directive include:

• a definition of the crime, aggravating circumstances and stiffer penalties;
• extraterritorial jurisdiction making it possible to prosecute EU nationals for crimes committed abroad and to use investigative tools such as phone listening and access to financial data;
• special treatment of the victims in criminal proceedings including non-punishment of victims who suffer the consequences of the criminal activities;
• a higher standard of protection and assistance for victims, and in particular special protective measures for children;
• preventive measures aimed at discouraging the demand side of the phenomenon.