The report provided concrete guidance for local and regional authorities across member States and showcased innovative local responses in prevention, victim assistance, detection, outreach, and coordination. Anniina presented the draft paper in Strasbourg on 4 July 2024 it was approved by the Committee on Social Inclusion and Human Dignity in October 2024.
The adapted report “Empowering cities and regions to combat human trafficking for labour exploitation” was unanimously adopted by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities during its 48th Session on 26 March 2025. The report, and consequent resolution and recommendations highlight the vital role of local and regional actors in identifying victims and preventing exploitation, especially in cases of labour trafficking.
Presented by co-rapporteurs Cecilia Dalman Eek from Sweden and Martine Dieschburg Nickels from Luxembourg, the report emphasises the importance of a coordinated, multi-level approach. This includes locally trained focal points, collaboration with NGOs, and close cooperation with national authorities. The Congress urges member states to develop national anti-trafficking strategies in consultation with local and regional authorities and their associations. It also calls for dedicated resources at the local level and stresses that data collection should serve both prevention and prosecution efforts.
Finland’s National Anti-Trafficking Coordinator, Dr. Venla Roth, shared Finland’s experience in making anti-trafficking a national priority since 2019. She highlighted the complexity of the phenomenon and the need for responses that are both flexible and determined. Allowing victims to keep their residence permits while seeking safer employment opportunities was identified as one effective approach.
European cities and regions on the front line in the fight against human trafficking - Congress of Local and Regional AuthoritiesLink to an external website
Watch the recording of the debateLink to an external website