Women and children run a greater risk of being subjected to human trafficking for sexual purposes, forced marriage and forced labour. The situation in Europe and in our neighbourhood has also deteriorated in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and there are disturbing reports of sexual violence and abuse against women in Ukraine. Europol has noted an increase in trafficking in human beings and organised crime in the EU as a result of the war.

Within the framework of the Swedish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, international actors, government representatives and experts from civil society in Europe and beyond are gathered in Stockholm today to discuss prevention models to combat the demand for human trafficking for sexual purposes and counter exploitation. The attendees include HM The Queen, Minister for Justice Gunnar Strömmer and Minister for Gender Equality and Working Life Paulina Brandberg. They are expected to be joined by survivors who will share their personal stories.

“Organised crime can take many forms, one of which is human trafficking for sexual purposes. It is an extremely serious crime whose victims are among the most vulnerable people in society. Combating trafficking in human beings is a priority issue for the Government,” says Anna Ekstedt, Sweden’s Ambassador against Human Trafficking.

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