The European Commission presented a new strategy against trafficking in human beings on October 16, ahead of the EU’s October 18 anti-trafficking observance. It was accompanied by a progress report using data from 2023 and 2024.

More than 20,000 victims were registered across those two years, 16.1% above the 2021–2022 total. Registered victims are identified cases, not a complete estimate of everyone affected by trafficking.

The strategy proposes stronger use of technology in prevention and investigations, a European business coalition against trafficking, closer cooperation among labour inspectors, and financial investigations aimed at criminal proceeds.

Other priorities address migration-related exploitation, crisis preparedness and the protection of people vulnerable to trafficking. The Commission also calls for deeper cooperation with international organizations and partner countries.

The European Parliament and Council will discuss the strategy, with implementation involving national coordinators, EU agencies and civil society. It complements the existing legal framework; its publication should not be described as proof that every proposed action is already implemented.