ODIHR publishes Ukrainian version of its anti-trafficking guide

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) launched its Guiding Principles on Human Rights in the Return of Trafficked Persons in the Ukrainian language at an event in Kyiv on 21 August 2018.

The Guiding Principles are intended for use by state authorities and civil society bodies, as well as by inter-governmental organizations involved in developing, applying, evaluating and reforming national laws, policies and practices related to trafficking, particularly to the return of trafficked persons.

The event participants stressed that trafficked persons may face a multitude of problems after returning to their country of origin. They also noted that authorities often fail to adequately assess protection needs or develop individual reintegration plans.

“The application of human rights standards in the return of survivors of trafficking in human beings is an essential step in ensuring their rehabilitation and reintegration, and in preventing re-victimization,” said Tatiana Kotlyarenko, ODIHR Adviser on Anti-Trafficking Issues. “The Guiding Principles outline the manner in which the return of survivors of trafficking should be conducted and emphasize the importance of co-operation between countries of origin and destination.”

The Commissioner of the President of Ukraine for Children's Rights, Mykola Kuleba, said: “The best interest of the child should be the primary consideration in the return process of trafficked children and should incorporate children’s views regarding their future. Referring to the Guiding Principles, he also added that every stage of the return process must be conducted in a safe and child-appropriate manner.