The Council of Europe Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA) has urged the San Marino’s authorities to adopt a national action plan for combatting human trafficking, including measures in the areas of prevention, identification of victims, awareness raising and training of relevant professionals.
In its latest report published today, GRETA assesses developments since the publication of its second evaluation report on San Marino in 2019 as regards the implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings.
No victims of human trafficking have been identified in the country. Nevertheless, GRETA notes that the strong demand for foreign labour creates trafficking risks for the purpose of labour exploitation, particularly in sectors such as domestic work, construction, tourism, and agriculture.
There is no specific provision in Sammarinese law on the non-punishment of victims of trafficking for unlawful activities and for granting a recovery and reflection period to victims of trafficking. GRETA urges to adopt such provisions.
GRETA is concerned that trafficking for the purpose of labour exploitation may be underestimated, therefore a raise awareness operation should be implemented. The Labour Inspectorate should be in the position to detect possible victims of trafficking, and to co-operate with trade unions and the private sector in preventing and combating labour trafficking.
Moreover, GRETA urges the authorities to develop a multi-disciplinary framework for the identification and referral to assistance of victims of trafficking, to provide indicators for the identification of victims, as well as guidance and training to all relevant professionals.
While welcoming the agreements concluded with structures in Italy, GRETA considers that San Marino should take further steps to ensure that any presumed and identified victims of trafficking can receive adequate assistance and support.
A child-specific identification mechanism based on multi-agency co-operation is required considering also the potential risks including recruitment and abuse through internet and via social networks.
The Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA) is an independent body which monitors the way countries implement the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings. All 46 member states of the Council of Europe are bound by the Convention, as well as non-member states Belarus and Israel.
