Strengthening Ukraine’s Fight Against Human Trafficking and Smuggling: EUAM Workshop Brings Best Practices to Kyiv
March 27, 2025
From 18 to 20 March 2025, the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM) in Ukraine organised a targeted workshop on human smuggling and trafficking in human beings (THB) for 16 representatives of the National Police of Ukraine (NPU) and regional Public Prosecutor’s Offices (PPOs). Held under the EUAM project “Enhancing Strategies and Techniques to Combat and Prevent Organised Crime in Ukraine,” the event focused on equipping participants with European investigative and prosecutorial best practices.
The workshop covered differences between smuggling and trafficking, victim-centered approaches, EU legal frameworks, and witness protection mechanisms. EU experts presented real case studies and exposed participants to the investigative strategies used in Belgium and Ireland – two countries with robust responses to organized trafficking networks.
Joël Detilloux, Senior Adviser on Criminal Investigations, emphasized the workshop’s value for fostering cross-sector coordination: “This event was an excellent opportunity to share best practices and strengthen cooperation between law enforcement, prosecutors, and civil society in combating human trafficking and smuggling. The participants demonstrated active engagement throughout the sessions, contributing valuable insights and experiences.”
Sessions were delivered by EUAM advisors and external speakers, including representatives from the Belgian Federal Judicial Police and civil society organization PAG-ASA. Christopher Elliott (EUAM) showcased Ireland’s National Action Plan against THB, while Koen Suttels and Patrick Bourgeois (Belgium) offered practical insights into proactive investigation models and victim protection measures.
A key takeaway was the clear distinction between human trafficking and human smuggling – terms often confused in practice. While both are serious crimes, they differ significantly in terms of victim status, intent, and legal framework. Participants welcomed this clarification, noting its importance for proper terminology in international legal cooperation.
Another focus topic was the need to view THB victims not just as witnesses but as individuals entitled to protection, recovery, and justice. Presentations emphasized the role of NGOs, trauma-informed interviewing techniques, and the necessity of safeguarding victims’ rights throughout the legal process.
The workshop closed with strong feedback from the participants, who highlighted the relevance of EU practices to Ukraine’s national context and the value of integrating human rights safeguards into law enforcement.
This event reaffirms EUAM’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s efforts in building resilient institutions capable of disrupting human trafficking and organized smuggling networks – while ensuring justice and dignity for victims.
