Trafficking in human beings remains one of the most serious forms of organized crime, violating the fundamental rights and dignity of its victims while generating substantial profits for criminal networks. Effective investigations and prosecutions require strong judicial cooperation to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and victims are protected.

This year’s Focus Group meeting featured presentation and discussion sessions, including updates on developments in the field of THB, the practical challenges of the application of the non-prosecution principle, cooperation with Latin American countries, the new operational action on judicial cooperation under EMPACT THB, child trafficking in the context of institutional care and awareness-raising efforts, as well as a consultation on the new EU Strategy on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings. The event gathered prosecutors and judicial practitioners working on THB cases, representatives from the European Commission, Europol and national authorities, as well as representatives from Western Balkan partner countries, Latin American countries, the EL PACCTO 2.0 Project, the OSCE, Eurojust National Members and Liaison Prosecutors.

In her welcome remarks, Eurojust Vice President Šniutytė-Daugėlienė said, Eurojust continues its efforts within its mandate to support the national authorities in fighting this transnational crime, which requires close cooperation at all levels, including at the judicial level, in the most efficient way. Exchange of experience and networking remain of supreme importance.

Ms. Diane Schmitt, EU Anti-Trafficking Coordinator, said, Trafficking in human beings is a crime that knows no borders and our response must be equally coordinated. This meeting demonstrates the commitment of specialised prosecutors across the EU to strengthen cooperation in the fight against trafficking. By working together and sharing expertise, we can enhance the effectiveness of investigations and prosecutions, ensuring a coordinated response that holds traffickers accountable and protect victims. 

The timing of this meeting coincides with the ongoing transposition of the revised EU Anti-Trafficking Directive to be completed by 15 July 2026 and the consultation on the new EU Strategy on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings. As Member States enter the final phase of transposition and prepare for the practical application of the new provisions, exchanges among specialised prosecutors and judicial practitioners are particularly valuable for identifying challenges, sharing experience and promoting a coherent and effective response to trafficking in human beings across the European Union. The meeting also provided an opportunity to highlight the judicial dimension of EMPACT activities, reflecting the stronger emphasis placed on judicial cooperation in the 2025–2030 policy cycle.