Background

One of the core challenges for IOM and its 118 member states is to combat human trafficking - an exploitative form of irregular migration involving the violation of human rights. In December 2000, IOM adopted the definition of trafficking in persons as set forth in the UN Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children, supplementing the UN Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime.

For IOM, trafficking occurs when a migrant is illegally engaged (recruited, kidnapped or sold) and either within national boundaries or across international borders; or when intermediaries (traffickers) obtain economic gains or profit by means of deception, coercion and other forms of exploitation under conditions that violate the fundamental rights of the migrant.

Because of their clandestine nature, irregular migration and trafficking are likely to remain significantly under-reported crimes. Trafficking exposes migrants to exploitation and violation of their fundamental human rights. Trafficked migrants are often dependent on their agents and employers, and are therefore extremely vulnerable.

In many parts of the world, possibilities for legal migration have decreased, while demand for foreign labour has remained constant. This, together with poverty, lack of opportunities, and political and social violence in countries of origin, may force potential migrants to turn to criminal networks. As a consequence, new trafficking routes are regularly being established.

IOM’s counter trafficking activities have substantially increased over the last few years and projects are being implemented worldwide. Since 1995, IOM has been contributing to the global fight against human trafficking by implementing over 300 counter-trafficking projects that target more than 70 countries worldwide; building more than 400 partnerships that strengthen governments and civil society; and providing direct assistance to over 9,000 trafficked persons.