OSCE supports nationwide discussion on implementing comprehensive anti-trafficking law in Ukraine

KYIV, 18 October 2012 – A national roundtable discussion on implementing Ukraine’s law on combating trafficking in human beings started in Kyiv today with support from the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine (PCU).

The one-day event, jointly organized by the PCU and the country’s Ministry of Social Policy, brought together government representatives from all over Ukraine to discuss recently adopted legislation supporting the anti-trafficking law, with a particular focus on identification and assistance to trafficking survivors.

“Victims of trafficking are in need of a wide and complex range of assistance which can only be provided through a multi-agency approach,” said Rene BeBeau, the PCU’s Senior Project Officer. “This approach should be based on regular interaction between governmental structures and civil society, and requires expert understanding, a professional attitude and timely response to individual needs.” 

Event participants identified ways of enhancing the work of the National Referral Mechanism to improve the quality of assistance, and highlighted the need for further harmonization of national legislation.

The discussion takes place as countries in the OSCE region mark European Anti-Trafficking Day. It is organized as part of a PCU-implemented project aimed at supporting the anti-trafficking National Referral Mechanism in Ukraine. The project is financially supported by Denmark and Ireland.