Soroptimists defend access to justice and effective remedies
Human trafficking is one of the major violation of human rights in the modern world. It is prohibited by the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and defined by the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union as a particularly serious form of organised crime. It is an example of modern slavery which destroys families and lives. Victims, usually women, are transported and coerced into exploitative conditions such as sexual exploitation, forced labour, begging, criminal activities, and even the removal of organs.
In our approach to the subject of anti-trafficking, please note that from 3 May 2005, the Council of Europe adopted a Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, which is in force since 1 February 2008.
Two Pillars monitor and supervise the implementation of the obligations set in the Convention: the Group of Experts on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA) and the Committee of the Parties.
Today we know that 95% of victims are women and girls.
Research by the European Institute of Gender Equality has shown that Trafficking for sexual exploitation is rooted in gender inequalities.
Trafficking for Sexual Exploitation is considered as Structural Violence and a Gender Crime.
The EU Anti-Trafficking Directive sets out the assistance, protection and support that should be given to victims of trafficking, including social and psychological service and durable solutions to child victims. The EU States are obliged to take a gender-specific approach that is effective.
In the light of these many challenges, SIE President Anna Wszelaczyńska, whose Biennium theme is “We Stand Up for Women,” is putting a particular emphasis on the need to address this very serious human rights violation which is not always visible, but is happening right in front of our eyes.
We at Soroptimist International of Europe actively make our stand against trafficking of humans through our projects.
Related documents:
- The Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings: Monitoring mechanism
- The Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings: Victims’ rights