Germany
Germany is divided into 16 Federal States (Länder) that have developed their competencies in identifying, protecting, and supporting victims of trafficking in human beings (THB). Victims of human trafficking are entitled to anonymous assistance free of charge, regardless of their willingness to cooperate with state authorities. The Youth Welfare Office provides additional support measures for children, such as education and intensive socio-educational assistance.
The German NGO Network against Trafficking in Human Beings (KOK) can refer victims to a relevant counselling centre: +49 30 263 911 76.
Identification
Germany is divided into 16 Federal States (Länder) that have developed their competencies in identifying, protecting, and supporting victims of trafficking in human beings (THB). Due to the autonomy of the federal states to develop their own policies, the processes to identify victims of human trafficking can therefore vary in different parts of the country. The German NGO Network against Trafficking in Human Beings (KOK) can refer victims to a relevant counselling centre.
Early and immediate assistance
Victims of human trafficking in Germany are entitled to anonymous assistance free of charge, regardless of their willingness to cooperate with state authorities. The threshold for accessing existing assistance programs is low but the access to the assistance and services can be limited if the victim does not have a legal residence status. The Youth Welfare Office provides additional support measures for children. Such as long-term placement in a residential care facility or with a foster family.
Temporary residence permits
Victims of human trafficking, including undocumented victims, can have access to a temporary residence permit. The residence permit is connected to the cooperating with the law enforcement authorities in criminal proceedings. The length of the temporary residence permit depends on the expected length of the criminal proceedings. The residence permit is often granted for one year, with the possibility of extension.
Pre-trial investigation and criminal proceedings
The German Code of Criminal procedure stipulates numerous assistance measures for victims of human trafficking. These include entitlement to be joint plaintiffs, right to be assigned a lawyer free of charge by the court, and a support person to accompany the victim in the interviews. Victims can claim compensation from the defendant for financial damages as well as pain and suffering. Victims of violent crimes are also entitled to apply for state compensation.
Long-term assistance and residence permits
Victims of human trafficking can apply for asylum or international protection. Human trafficking can be considered as reason for asylum or international protection if the claims of the victim are found credible and substantiated. The possibility to receive long-term assistance depends on the type of residence permit a person holds. Counselling centres can offer possibilities for integration and social inclusion to people who have a legal status in Germany.
Voluntary return and reintegration
Victims of human trafficking can return to their country of origin through the REAG/GARP programme. REAG/GARP provides financial and organisational assistance to migrants who are willing to return to their country of origin or to move to another country that is willing to admit them. REAG/GARP is complemented by the national reintegration programme StarthilfePlus.
