New CBSS Initiative Aims to Combat Human Trafficking for Sexual Exploitation in the Baltic Sea Region

The CBSS has launched a new initiative, funded by the Swedish Government Offices, aimed at enhancing regional efforts to combat the trafficking of vulnerable populations for sexual exploitation.

To amplify the institutional response to the trafficking of vulnerable populations for sexual exploitation in the Baltic Sea Region, the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) has recently launched a new initiative titled the “Practical and Empirical Approach to Address Trafficking in Human Beings (THB) for Sexual Exploitation in the Baltic Sea Region” (PEX-BSR). 

Running until December 2024 and funded by the Government Offices of Sweden, the PEX-BSR project is designed to strengthen the necessary coordination among CBSS Member States in combatting trafficking for sexual exploitation. 

“Trafficking in human beings is a cross-border crime and cannot be countered single-handedly by one state,” said Edi Mujaj, the Head of Unit at the CBSS overseeing the actions, adding that the initiative will enable the CBSS to amplify its efforts in addressing trafficking for sexual exploitation in the region.

PEX-BSR will also shed light on the demand for sexual services, a primary driver of sexual exploitation. In addition, the project aims to increase the capabilities of frontline workers to detect and counteract these criminal activities.

Project pillars and activities

The project is underpinned by two main pillars: the production of evidence-based information, and the enhancement of skills among frontline workers. To this end, a series of strategic activities have been outlined:

  1. Development of an investigation protocol: In the project, the CBSS Task Force Against Trafficking in Human Beings (TF-THB) is set to develop a protocol offering practical guidance to police investigators and prosecutors. This tool aims to ensure robust investigations and can also be integrated into or serve as a foundation for police training across member states.
  2. Online training module: Tailored for embassies and diplomatic missions, this module will build on an existing CBSS handbook, assisting in the protection of victims. The module will address specific vulnerabilities of children and LGBTQIA+ individuals, reinforcing the region’s capacity to combat sexual exploitation.
  3. Educational materials for youth: In collaboration with the Baltic Sea Region Youth Forum (BSRYF) and various NGOs, the project will produce materials that focus on emerging trends in human trafficking like online exploitation, aiming to educate and engage young people on the critical role of demand in fuelling these crimes.
  4. Comprehensive studies on human trafficking: In light of increased risks following the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, the project will compile data and insights to provide an updated perspective on human trafficking trends, demands, and victim vulnerabilities within the region.

“The investigation protocol, jointly developed with law enforcement agencies of some of our CBSS Member States, is an important step in giving investigators the tools and support they need to combat trafficking for sexual exploitation,” said Mujaj.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has escalated the risk of human trafficking in the Baltic Sea Region, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced collaboration among law enforcement to effectively  investigate those involved in or facilitating human trafficking and related organised crime.

The Investigation Protocol will be developed with support and contributions from several key regional law enforcement agencies, including the South Jutland Police in Denmark, the Prosecutor General’s Office in Lithuania, the National Police Competence Group on Trafficking in Human Beings in Norway, as well as the National Police Department for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings of the Criminal Bureau, the Border Guards Headquarters in Poland, and the Swedish Police Authority. Europol and Frontex will contribute to the activity as well.