A Human rights, victim-centred approach is required to address the phenomenon of human trafficking" - Report on the Annual COATNET Users' Meeting 2006

Brussels , 25 September 2006. - Over thirty representatives of various christian organisations involved in combating trafficking in human beings met in Germany for the Annual Meeting of COATNET users on 21-23 September. The event was organised by Caritas Europa, which holds the legal authority over COATNET, and hosted by one of the network's partners - In Via Berlin.

Among the common concerns highlighted was the issue of protection, core element of a human rights, victim-centred approach. This requires non-biased attitudes, and honouring the beliefs and convictions of the persons in need of assistance.

Several participants noticed that in their countries the assistance provision is still conditional on the willingness of a person to act as a witness in the prosecution process.

According to a representative of the German Federal Ministry for Family, Youth and Gender Equality, the victims' residence status is the main aspect for governments that usually look at trafficking as a prosecution and migration, rather than a human rights issue. This eventually results in a further traumatisation of victims who may see their right to travel restricted.

Key contributions were presentations about the approaches of Germany and Sweden . A distinct feature of the "Swedish Model" is the criminalisation of the use of sexual services, whereas in Germany the method to provide witnesses with protection is followed.

In conclusion, the COATNET Users' Meeting called for a strengthened international cooperation among all actors involved in the fight against trafficking. Also, tackling the demand side and standing of traffickers were recognised as possible objectives for the future.