21 professionals have successfully completed the new, updated online training modules on human trafficking developed in line with the Council of Europe’s HELP (Human Rights Education for Legal Professionals) Methodology.

The updated course includes the latest practice of the European Court of Human Rights and the Court of Justice of the European Union, as well as the legal framework of the European Union and the Council of Europe. The content of the course has also been adjusted to the BiH legal framework.

The new online training modules on human trafficking was launched on 20 September 2024. The aim is to increase the capacity of legal and other relevant professionals to detect, identify, investigate, prosecute, and convict trafficking cases and protect victims' rights in accordance with the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings.

Out of 36 professionals, 21 have successfully completed all modules and received certificates. They include judges, prosecutors, free legal aid providers, social workers, labour inspectors, law enforcement professionals and NGO representatives. The modules were led by tutors Adisa Zahiragić, judge at the Cantonal Court in Sarajevo, and Rebeka Kotlo, professor at the Faculty of Law at the University “Džemal Bijedić” in Mostar.

The updated course comprises of eight modules, along with the introductory and final modules, and weekly consultations. Over 65 documents, publications, guidelines, textbooks, analyses, strategies, leaflets, news articles, and case examples concerning the application of the relevant European and international standards were used. These documents shall remain available to the participants after the conclusion of the course.

In the last five years, the Council of Europe’s anti-trafficking project in Bosnia and Herzegovina has already supported the implementation of three general HELP courses on trafficking in human beings (53 certified professionals) and two HELP courses on trafficking in human beings for the purpose of labour exploitation (33 certified professionals).

Participants have positively evaluated the course, noting as a particular advantage its vast scope, given that these topics have not been sufficiently developed in practice. They also commended the fact that the course employs a large array of practical examples.

The Council of Europe project “Strengthening anti-trafficking action in Bosnia and Herzegovina” is implemented in the framework of the Council of Europe’s Action Plan for Bosnia and Herzegovina (2022–2025), funded by voluntary contributions.

Learn more: HELP (Human Rights Education for Legal Professionals) is a platform offering free online courses available in English and other languages.