Judges, prosecutors, investigators, lawyers, and other key actors in North Macedonia are now better equipped to prosecute traffickers and recover illegal profits, as a result of a specialised training supported by the EU and Council of Europe and implemented in co-operation with the Academy for judges and prosecutors in Skopje. The programme focused on strengthening participants’ skills in financial investigations, freezing and confiscation of assets obtained through trafficking in human beings. The session underscored the essential role of robust financial investigations in disrupting criminal networks, preventing reinvestment in illicit activities, safeguarding the integrity of the legal system, and supporting the collection of evidence.

Relevant recommendations of the Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (GRETA) were discussed, urging the authorities to collect comprehensive evidence on victim harm and financial gains, as well as to make a full use of asset seizure legislation to deter human trafficking and support victim compensation.

Experts from the Slovenian Development Academy and local anti-trafficking specialists facilitated the training, sharing best practices and practical knowledge.

“In human trafficking cases, a conviction is only part of the response: offenders should not be allowed to retain the profits of exploitation. This training focuses on the practical decisions needed to investigate finances alongside the offence, secure assets before they disappear and strengthen victims’ prospects of obtaining compensation”, said Andreja DOLNIČAR JERAJ, Executive Director of the Slovenian Development Academy.  

Participants were encouraged to actively engage, exchange ideas, and promote inter-agency co-operation, reinforcing their collective commitment to combating human trafficking. The event marks another important milestone in the ongoing partnership between the Council of Europe and public institutions in North Macedonia, aimed at strengthening the fight against human trafficking.

The action “Strengthening anti-trafficking action in North Macedonia”, is part of the European Union and Council of Europe joint initiative “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye”.