Countering trafficking in human beings: the Ministry of Social Policy and UNODC discuss a New state programme and digital solutions

Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine Denys Ulyutin held a meeting with the Head of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Programme Office in Ukraine, Harsheth Virk. The parties discussed next steps in countering trafficking in human beings in the context of the war, as well as the coordination of international support needed for Ukraine’s alignment with EU standards.

Denys Ulyutin stressed that combating trafficking in human beings remains a priority of Ukraine’s state policy, particularly within the implementation of the Rule of Law Roadmap and Ukraine’s EU integration commitments.

According to the Minister, the Ministry’s work is focused on prevention and reducing risks for vulnerable groups, timely identification of victims based on clear standards of interagency cooperation, ensuring protection, assistance and reintegration of victims with stronger involvement of communities and regions, as well as the development of digital solutions and quality data to support interagency coordination and case management.

“It is important for us that the system for countering trafficking in human beings works in a clear and coordinated manner, without unnecessary bureaucracy or re-traumatisation of victims. This is why we are working on a new state programme and digital solutions that will allow faster identification of victims and the provision of necessary assistance,” Denys Ulyutin noted.

The meeting also focused on the preparation of a new State Programme on Countering Trafficking in Human Beings. The Ministry is currently finalising the programme concept and conducting consultations. The document is intended to update approaches to prevention, protection and recovery of victims and to ensure alignment with European standards.

Special attention was given to the digitalisation of victim identification processes. The Ministry is interested in UNODC’s support in developing digital tools that would be integrated with the Unified Information System of the Social Sphere (UISSS), ensuring transparent interagency interaction and continuous support for individuals.

Representatives of UNODC confirmed their readiness to continue supporting Ukraine in developing victim-centred approaches and implementing practical solutions in the field of countering trafficking in human beings.

Previously, in November, Minister Denys Ulyutin addressed the United Nations General Assembly, highlighting the need for global solutions to counter trafficking in human beings, which has intensified due to Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine. He noted that wartime conditions increase the risks of exploitation and require a coordinated international response.

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