In a decisive move to combat human trafficking, the European Parliament on Tuesday overwhelmingly adopted a new law aimed at expanding the scope of current measures and providing better support for victims. The legislation, passed with 563 in favor, 7 against, and 17 abstentions, marks a significant step forward in the EU’s efforts to tackle this heinous crime.
The new law not only broadens the EU’s actions against human trafficking beyond labor and sexual exploitation but also criminalizes forced marriage, illegal adoption, and exploitation of surrogacy at the EU level. Key provisions of the legislation include enhancing coordination between anti-trafficking and asylum authorities, criminalizing the use of services provided by trafficking victims, and introducing penalties for companies convicted of trafficking.
Co-rapporteur Eugenia Rodríguez Palop emphasized the urgency of the directive, stating, “Twelve years after adopting the directive, MEPs have had to overhaul EU rules, as trafficking has become more sophisticated and the resources at our disposal remained rudimentary. We need to be able to find victims early, and protect and support them. Trafficking is torture; perpetrators must pay for what they have done and victims must receive compensation and redress for their suffering.”
Fellow co-rapporteur Malin Björk echoed Palop’s sentiments, highlighting the progress made during negotiations. “We achieved progress during these negotiations; new forms of exploitation will be criminalized, and the rights of victims, including those that are migrants, will be improved,” said Björk. “We are also reducing demand with provisions on sexual exploitation. We have started a change, and now the member states must make the most of this directive and ensure that women and girls are not bought and sold in Europe.”
The law also addresses the demands of citizens outlined in the conclusions of the Conference on the Future of Europe, particularly focusing on fighting human trafficking in cooperation with third countries and ensuring the safety of migrants.
The directive will come into force twenty days after its publication in the EU Official Journal, and member states will have two years to implement its provisions. However, the Council’s formal approval is still pending, underscoring the continued commitment needed at the EU level to combat human trafficking effectively.
