OSCE Project Co-ordinator helps Ukraine combat human trafficking during sports events

KYIV, 16 November 2010 - Officials from Ukrainian law enforcement agencies started an OSCE-supported study tour of Germany today to learn about experiences in preventing and responding to human trafficking attempts before and during major international sport events.

The four-day study visit was organized by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine ahead of the 2012 UEFA European Football Championship Finals, which will be co-hosted by Ukraine and Poland.

Participants will learn from their German counterparts how co-operation and partnership between different law enforcement authorities can be structured to prevent trafficking. Following the trip, they will develop strategies and measures to minimize the risk of trafficking during the tournament.

"The study visit is an opportunity to hear about best practices and lessons learned in preventing and combating human trafficking focusing on German experience with 2006 FIFA World Cup," said Ambassador Lubomir Kopaj, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine.

The officials will use experiences gained during the visit to Berlin and Frankfurt to develop strategies and measures to minimize risks of trafficking during the upcoming international sport event in Ukraine.

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine organized the visit with support from the OSCE Strategic Police Matters Unit and the German Foreign and Interior Ministries.