In a report published today, The Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA) welcomes the steps taken by Liechtenstein to combat trafficking in human beings, through the adoption of legislation, Guidelines and a coordinating mechanism and calls on the authorities to strengthen preventive measures and the training of professionals who may come into contact with victims of trafficking.

To better prevent trafficking for labour exploitation, the report recommends training labour inspectors, paying particular attention to at-risk sectors and reviewing the regulatory systems concerning domestic and personal care workers.

The report also highlights the importance of identifying all victims of trafficking are properly identified so that they can benefit from adequate assistance and protection measures. Sufficient human resources should be provided to the asylum reception centre, as well as training to its staff, to enable identification of victims of trafficking among asylum seekers. A procedure for identifying child victims of trafficking should be developed, with input from child protection specialists.

Furthermore, the right of presumed victims of trafficking to a recovery and reflection period of at least 30 days should be provided for in internal law, and victims’ effective access to this entitlement must be ensured.

GRETA invites the authorities to adopt specific legislation and/or guidance on the non-punishment of victims of trafficking for their involvement in unlawful activities.

Finally, the report further refers to the Liechtenstein Initiative for a Financial Sector Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking, which promotes access to formal financial services and credits, such as microcredits, and human rights diligence by companies in supply chains.