Twenty years ago, the Council of Europe made history. On 16 May 2005, at the Warsaw Summit of Heads of State and Government, it opened for signature the first international treaty to place the protection of the rights of victims at the heart of the fight against human trafficking. Fourteen countries signed on day one. Today, all Council of Europe member States have ratified the Convention, making it a powerful and united front against one of the most serious human rights violations of our time. The Convention is open to non-member States, and Belarus and Israel have also joined it.
“As the first instrument to adopt a human rights-based approach to combating trafficking in human beings, the Council of Europe Convention has transformed the way in which we respond to this crime,” stated Ambassador Maria Spassova, Chair of the Committee of the Parties to the Convention. “Its victim-centred model ensures that people are not just protected, but empowered – and that their dignity is restored.”
The Convention has become a reference worldwide and its impact goes far beyond words. The Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA), ensures that States comply with their commitments through regular monitoring of the implementation of the Convention and the publication of nearly 140 country reports to date.
“Twenty years on, the Convention remains our strongest tool to combat human trafficking,” said Conny Rijken, President of GRETA. “Its comprehensive provisions have translated into real progress in national legislation, policies and practices, making a lasting impact on how countries tackle human trafficking.”
Despite the progress achieved, human trafficking remains a pressing threat, fuelled by digital technologies, armed conflicts and deepening inequalities. The fight is far from over. States Parties to the Convention must step up their efforts to put in place effective prevention policies, confront new forms of exploitation and keep victims’ rights at the heart of every response. Only through unwavering political will and united action can we bring this grave human rights violation to an end.
Newsroom (Action against Trafficking in Human Beings): 2005-2025: 20 years of putting victims first - The Council of Europe Convention remains our strongest tool against human trafficking
Council of Europe: 20 years of the Council of Europe Anti-Trafficking Convention (anniversary webpage)
Council of Europe: Online and technology-facilitated trafficking in human beings (dedicated webpage)