OSCE Project Co-ordinator trains Ukrainian judiciary to combat human trafficking

KYIV, 7 April 2008 - Helping the Ukrainian judiciary handle cases of human trafficking, prosecute the perpetrators and help ensure the victims' rights is the focus of a training course that started in the Ukrainian capital today.

The five-day event was organized by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine and the Academy of Judges.

"Combating trafficking is a high priority for Ukraine," said Todd Becker, Senior Project Officer and Acting Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator's office.

"The role of judiciary is ultimately crucial for making sure that adequate punishment is imposed on the perpetrators and in ensuring the rights of the victims of this crime. The OSCE Action Plan to Combat Trafficking in Human Beings envisages enhancement of training for judges. We work closely with Ukrainian partners to build their capacities and share best practices in the field."

The training of trainers course will include a discussion of international standards and Ukrainian legislation on combating trafficking in human beings and related offences, court practices, trauma and needs of victims, and training techniques. The course will be delivered by international and Ukrainian experts, including representatives of civil society.

"Over the past several years of our co-operation with the OSCE, we have developed a number of training programmes for judges in order to bring Ukraine's judiciary in line with European standards," said Natalia Akhtyrska, First Vice-Rector of the Ukrainian Academy of Judges. "This training course is now integrated into the Academy's curriculum and is taught on a regular basis."

The training of trainers approach is used to facilitate further dissemination of relevant knowledge and expertise among the members of the Ukrainian judiciary. Follow-up courses will be organized in different regions of the country.