|
On Monday 23 August, the world marks the International Day for
the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, this is
particularly important as 2004 is United Nations International
Year to Commemorate the Struggle Against Slavery and its Abolition.
But slavery continues today, in every region, even though it is
illegal under international law. Trafficking is the fastest growing
form of slavery, yet protection for the victims of this crime is
an issue of serious concern.
The Council of Europe is currently drafting the European Convention
on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings, providing a valuable
opportunity for European-wide protection for victims of trafficking.
It is vital that this Convention includes measures that truly protect
these people and ensures that protecting their human rights is at
its heart. To do so, the Convention needs to require member states
to:
- Provide trafficked people with at least three months permission
to stay in the country
(a reflection delay) while they recover from their ordeal and
make an informed decision about their future.
- Make sure they have access to the full range of assistance,
protection and support services including access to medical help,
training, education and employment opportunities, and financial
support.
- Provide them with renewable short-term residence permits, with
the possibility of permanent residence for those who are especially
vulnerable.
"It is vital European governments do not miss this opportunity
to protect trafficked people's rights. And that these measures,
which are fundamental to achieving this, are provided regardless
of whether the trafficked person co-operates in an investigation
or prosecution," Mary Cunneen Director of Anti-Slavery
International said.
|
