North Macedonia supported in identifying potential victims of trafficking in persons

22-24 June 2022, Ohrid, North Macedonia: UNODC in co-operation with the National Commission for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings and Illegal Migration in North Macedonia held a three-day multidisciplinary thematic workshop on identifying potential victims of trafficking in persons (TIP) and children in line with the findings from the analysis of cases of TIP on challenges in effective prosecution and sanctioning of perpetrators.

The event is the first thematic workshop where 22 representatives from the anti-trafficking police, prosecutors, judges, service providers for the victims of trafficking as well as child protection representatives from governmental and non-governmental organizations addressed the challenges in practical implementation, cooperation, identification, and care for the victims.

“It is important to have more trainings on this topic in order to increase our knowledge and skills in dealing with it and applying a victim-centered approach and trauma-informed investigations.”- Besir Aliu-prosecutor from Basic Public Prosecutor’s office Tetovo, North Macedonia.

 The participants discuss ways to overcome the identified challenges and concrete recommendations were drafted for the relevant authorities.

The training is part of the UNODC project UN. Locking Impunity of Traffickers and Supporting Justice for Victims of Trafficking in Persons in Southeastern Europe funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons (J/TIP).

This activity contributes to SDG 16, particularly Target 16.2 to end abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children.

https://sdg-tracker.org/peace-justice#targets