OSCE makes recommendations to Moldovan Government on combating human trafficking

The OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, Maria Grazia Giammarinaro, published today recommendations to the Moldovan Government to advance continuing efforts to prevent human trafficking, assist trafficked persons and bring perpetrators to justice, it was said in a press release. The recommendations are based on the Special Representative’s visit toMoldova in October and November last year, which included direct consultations with high-level government officials, and non-governmental organizations on the situation in the country, with special emphasis on trafficking for labour exploitation and child trafficking. “Following my visit I have continued my productive co-operation with the Moldovan authorities, and congratulate the government on the new Action Plan adopted on 4 July, which takes into account some of the recommendations of my report,” Giammarinaro said. “I also welcome the government’s constructive engagement with non-governmental organizations to establish and enhance the National Referral System for victims.” In her recommendations, the Special Representative called on the Moldovan Government to sustain political commitment to anti-trafficking action by encouraging parliamentary hearings on the issue, enhance child protection measures to better prevent child trafficking and curb fraudulent recruitment practices. Another recommendation is to strengthen the law enforcement and criminal justice response, including through ensuring legislative consistency between the Criminal Code and the Anti-Trafficking Law, and providing regular extensive training for law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, and lawyers representing victims.