On Monday, May 13, the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (hereinafter referred to as the Office) is launching an information campaign "Spot the Threat of Trafficking in Human Beings!" to raise awareness among Ukrainian civilians about the potential risks of trafficking in human beings and preventive measures.
Following the Russian-led war in Ukraine, more than 50,000 Ukrainian civilians have sought refuge in Latvia.
Most of them continue living and working in Latvia, but a loss of vigilance could increase the risk of trafficking in human beings among Ukrainian civilians. As a result, people may accept dubious job offers, women may be lured into sexual exploitation, and the overall risk of trafficking increases.
Last year, an estimated total of around 4 million Ukrainian civilians were granted temporary protection in EU Member States. According to the State Revenue Service, 8.7 thousand Ukrainian nationals were registered as workers in Latvia at the beginning of 2024. Of these, 38.7% are employed in elementary occupations, such as office, hotel and other cleaners, kitchen workers, shop assistants and others. 16.1% are skilled workers and craftsmen, 14.8% are service and sales workers, 12.7% are senior professionals and professionals and 0.9% are managers.
"If Ukrainian civilians are not familiar with local legislation or lack support from the local community, they are at increased risk of being trafficked. Ukrainian nationals are exposed to various forms of trafficking in human beings, so it is important to remain vigilant in various sectors and ensure timely exchange of information to mitigate risks," said Minister of the Interior Rihards Kozlovskis.
More information on the risks of trafficking in human beings is available on the websites of the Office and the Ministry of the Interior:
https://www.iem.gov.lv/en/how-protect-yourself-trafficking-human-beings
https://www.iem.gov.lv/lv/ka-sevi-pasargat-no-cilveku-tirdzniecibas-0
Communication campaign "Spot the Threat of Trafficking in Human Beings!" is created and funded within the framework of the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund 2021 – 2027 Programme Project No PMLP/PMIF/2023/2 "Support measures for reception and accommodation of persons in need of international protection in Latvia (1st phase)".
The project aims to raise awareness among Ukrainian civilians about the potential risks of trafficking in human beings, as well as to provide information on how to protect themselves and where to turn for help.