Identification
Who is responsible for identifying a victim of human trafficking?
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.
Organisations most likely to identify presumed victims include the German Police, border guards, non-governmental organisations, migration authorities, social workers, and the Financial Control of Undeclared Work Unit (FKS) of the German Customs Administration that conducts inspections on labour sites.
The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) is the competent authority to identify possible victims of human trafficking in the asylum process. The identification may take place either after a person has applied for asylum or during the asylum interview. The identification process is supported by “special representatives” who help case workers monitor and assess cases involving victims of human trafficking.
Victims of human trafficking do not need to be formally identified to receive support and assistance through Specialised Counselling Centres. The mandate of the Centres can vary depending on the Federal State they are located. Most counselling centres cover assistance to victims of sexual exploitation while some also cover victims of labour exploitation.
Special procedures for identification of a child victim of human trafficking
If there are indications that a child’s welfare is at risk, the Youth Welfare Office must conduct a risk assessment. Following the assessment, Youth Welfare Office has to offer appropriate and necessary support or take the child into care. The protective measures for child victims are part of the general protection mandate of the office.
In addition, healthcare professionals and the family court play a significant role in identifying children at risk of exploitation. Healthcare professionals are obliged to inform the Youth Welfare Office if they suspect that a child’s welfare is at risk. The family court investigates risks to a child’s welfare that come to its attention, and initiates proceedings. It must then take the necessary measures to avoid or stop any harm to the child.
National hotlines for victims of human trafficking
The German NGO Network against Trafficking in Human Beings (KOK) can refer victims to a relevant counselling centre. The contact details of KOK are the following:
Website: http://www.kok-gegen-menschenhandel.de/
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (+49) 30 263 911 76
In addition, the “Violence Against Women” helpline provides advice on all forms of violence against women, including human trafficking. The helpline, which is run by the federal government, is available 24 hours a day and is free of charge. The female-only counsellors can be contacted anonymously by telephone, email, or chat. The helpline is available in 18 foreign languages, easy German, and sign language. The focus of the helpline is in providing initial counselling and support through referrals.