Fourteen newly certified trainers conducted a series of four training sessions, focusing on combating human trafficking for labour exploitation, for over 50 professionals from Bosnia and Herzegovina. This initiative marks their first independent engagement as emerging focal points for knowledge-sharing and capacity-building, contributing to the sustainability and continuous enhancement of local efforts to counter human trafficking in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The one-day cascade training sessions were held in Banja Luka (18 November), Bihać (19 November), Brčko (20 November), and Sarajevo (21 November). They addressed key topics such as basic elements, mechanisms for combating human trafficking in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the legal framework, and indicators for identifying victims of trafficking. Trainers emphasized the critical importance of a multi-sectoral approach, particularly fostering cooperation between labour inspectors and law enforcement agencies.

Participants had the opportunity to engage with real-life case studies of labour trafficking, with some encountering human trafficking issues for the first time.

According to official data from the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the exploitation of male and female workers, as a form of human trafficking, is on the rise in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A growth of 3.2% was observed in the period 2016-2019. to 8% between 2020 and 2023.

The 14 trainers, drawn from law enforcement and labour inspectorates, underwent specialized training between April and June 2024 using modules and materials developed by the Council of Europe. During the preparation phase, including the selection of topics and case studies, the certified trainers received guidance and support from the Council of Europe consultant, Ivana Radović, and the Criminal Policy Research Centre (CPRC).

The cascade training sessions were organised by the Council of Europe’s anti-trafficking activity “Strengthening anti-trafficking action in Bosnia and Herzegovina” funded by voluntary contributions under the framework of the Action Plan for Bosnia and Herzegovina (2022-2025).