How to protect yourself and loved ones from human trafficking during wartime: recommendations and safety measures

The full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation into Ukraine became an additional factor in the activation of human traffickers. Unfortunately, this crime does not escape Ukrainians both in the temporarily occupied territories and abroad, which creates new challenges for law enforcement agencies of Ukraine. Human trafficking is a global problem that has become more acute in war. Criminals take advantage of the chaos and confusion of war to exploit people.

Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine informs about numerous cases of human trafficking, which are recorded even in the conditions of the impossibility of documenting crimes in the occupied territories. These cases will make it possible to bring the culprits to justice in the future. However, the danger of human trafficking threatens not only those who remained in the occupied territories, but also Ukrainian refugees abroad.

State expert of the expert group on countering human trafficking, domestic violence and gender equality of the Ministry of Social Policy Andriy Labun gave a number of important tips on the air of the radio program “Nakipilo” on how to protect oneself from falling into the hands of human traffickers.

List of basic tips:

• Be careful. Never hand over identity documents to anyone. Your identity is your main asset, which should be protected at all costs.
• Learn the language of the host country. Even basic knowledge of the language will help you better navigate situations and avoid possible pitfalls.
• Do not share personal information on the Internet. Cyber ​​security is an important part of your defense. Always be careful what you post online.
• Check working conditions. Before accepting a job offer abroad, carefully check the working conditions and reputation of the employer.
• Tell loved ones the details of your trip. Always inform your relatives about the route, destination, international phone number, PIN number of the contact person who will meet you, and other important details.
• Come up with a code word with loved ones. Come up with a code word with your family that you will use if you are in danger. This will allow you to warn them without arousing the suspicion of intruders.
• Keep contacts of embassies and consular institutions of Ukraine with you. This can be a decisive factor in the event of a difficult situation abroad.

Additional tips from AI “FACT”

Maintain constant contact with Ukrainian organizations abroad. If you are in another country, always stay in touch with Ukrainian diaspora organizations, volunteer centers and consulates. They can provide not only information, but also practical support in case of danger.

Be careful with online communication. Traffickers often use social media and classifieds sites to recruit. Be especially careful when meeting people online, especially if they are offering help or work. Avoid meeting strangers unaccompanied or in public places.

Create a list of trusted contacts in your host country. These can be friends, employees of consulates or local residents who are ready to help in case of unforeseen circumstances. It is important that these contacts are listed in your mobile phone book or on a piece of paper that you carry with you.

Use apps for security. Today’s technology offers many mobile applications that can help you stay in touch with loved ones, send SOS signals or find safe places nearby. Make sure you have these apps installed on your phone and learn how to use them.

Avoid suspicious offers of “easy money”. Any offer that seems too cheap or easy should make you suspicious. Human traffickers often use deceptive methods, promising high pay for easy work that does not require special skills.

Compliance with these rules can save the life and health of those who find themselves in a difficult situation.

Where to apply

If you or someone close to you finds yourself in a situation related to human trafficking, it is important to act quickly and seek help from the relevant authorities and organizations. Here’s where you can go:

1. National Police of Ukraine. If you are in Ukraine, contact your local police station immediately or call 102.
2. Embassies and consulates of Ukraine abroad. If you are abroad, contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Ukraine. Contact information can be found on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
3. Hotline on combating human trafficking and domestic violence in Ukraine. Hotline 527 (for calls from mobile phones) or 0 800 500 335 (calls from landlines).
4. International organizations and non-governmental organizations:
   • International Organization for Migration (IOM). IOM provides support to victims of trafficking, including legal aid, psychological support and repatriation. Contact number in Ukraine: +38 044 568 50 15.
   • Caritas of Ukraine. This organization provides assistance to victims of human trafficking, including crisis support. They also have a hotline for help.
5. National hotline for prevention of human trafficking in EU countries: Many EU countries have national hotlines that specialize in supporting victims of human trafficking. Information can usually be found on the official websites of governments or migration services.
6. Support centers for Ukrainian refugees abroad: Many countries have support centers that can provide the necessary help and advice.
7. Local authorities and social services: If abroad, contact local authorities or social services, who can provide information and help in cases of human trafficking.

Maintaining personal safety in conditions of war and forced displacement is not only a matter of prudence, but also a systematic approach to one’s own protection. Use all available resources and follow these tips to protect yourself and your loved ones from being trafficked. Your life and safety are the highest value that should be protected by all available means.