The Council of Europe’s group of independent anti-trafficking experts GRETA has issued new guidance to public authorities, relevant agencies and civil-society organisations aimed at ensuring that trafficking victims can exercise their right to residence permits, which is provided for the Council of Europe Convention on action against trafficking in human beings (Article 14).
In a guidance note published today, GRETA sets out a series of practical recommendations to address existing shortcomings in the granting of residence permits to trafficking victims, which is an essential part of their access to remedies.
Difficulties with regularisation harming reporting of trafficking
GRETA’s monitoring of the implementation of the convention shows that victims of trafficking face long waiting periods or denial to be issued residence permits. The low chances of having their status regularised and the threat of quick removal or deportation make victims reluctant to come forth for identification and co-operate with the investigation.
“The regularisation of the legal status of victims of trafficking is key for their access to assistance to recover from the physical and psychological harm suffered. Residence permits also enable victims to remain in the country and participate in trafficking-related investigations and trials”, stated GRETA’s President, Conny Rijken. “Residence status offers victims a framework that guarantees their safety and stability, and can enable them to access justice,” she underlined.
The guidance note highlights the purposes and principles of residence permits for victims of human trafficking, the legal basis, procedures and practical requirements for granting such permits, and the relationship with other provisions of the Council of Europe Anti-Trafficking Convention.
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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.
