OSCE Special Representative, in Skopje, welcomes authorities’ latest efforts in combating human trafficking

SKOPJE, 26 March 2015 – The OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, Ambassador Madina Jarbussynova, praised the country’s authorities for its efforts, supported by the OSCE Mission to Skopje, to combat modern-day slavery at the conclusion of a four-day visit to the country.

During the visit, the Special Representative held meetings with government officials as well as representatives of non-governmental and international organizations.

“I commend the government’s efforts in harmonizing its national legal framework in line with international standards,” said Ambassador Jarbussynova. “In addition, I would like to encourage the authorities to continue improving the early identification of victims, in particular among at-risk groups. This process should involve all stakeholders such as labour inspectors, border police and NGOs who are often the first ones in contact with potential victims.”

The Special Representative conducts a series of country visits every year in order to share knowledge and good practices in the fight against human trafficking and to make tailor-made recommendations for the countries visited. This was her first visit to the country, which is considered to be a country of origin, transit and destination for trafficking victims, especially minors.

She also welcomed the will of the government to establish a State compensation fund. “Compensation is a key part of the recovery process for victims. Criminal assets may be seized, confiscated and used as a source for victims’ compensation,” Ambassador Jarbussynova said.

Ambassador Jarbussynova held meetings with Interior Minister Gordana Jankulovska, Prosecutor General Marko Zvrlevski, State Secretary of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and National Co-ordinator, Anastasija Ilieska, National Rapporteur on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings and Smuggling of Migrants, Kiro Todorovski, among other officials.