The “2025 Constructive Dialogue on Human Trafficking” in Vienna aimed to collect input from non-governmental stakeholders on improving the implementation of the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) and its protocols. Present at this dialogue were approximately 60 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and Member States personnel from across the world. Imelda Poole IBVM represented the IBVM/CJ UNNGO office in New York.
Outcomes included a greater emphasis on a victim-centered, trauma-sensitive, culturally informed approach, calls for better support services and long-term strategies for survivors, plus a renewed focus on preventing the exploitation of vulnerable groups like migrant workers. The dialogues also highlighted the urgency of addressing new forms of trafficking especially the explosion of IT and AI forms of deep fake online and the importance of international collaboration, international law enforcement cooperation, and strengthening justice systems.
Outcomes from the 2025 Constructive Dialogue on Human Trafficking
- Improved implementation of UNTOC:
A key outcome was the collection of suggestions and inputs from civil society organizations to improve the implementation of the UNTOC and its protocols and to ensure follow through of all commitments promised from the previous year and especially releasing reports of country reviews undertaken. - Emphasis on victim-centered and survivor-led approaches:
There was a push for a victim-centered, trauma-sensitive, and interdisciplinary approach to combating human trafficking. - Calls for enhanced support for survivors:
The dialogues stressed the importance of providing sustained support for the recovery and independence of survivors through holistic, long-term care, which includes access to housing, healthcare, and legal aid. It was questioned what is happening to the trafficker’s assets of trillion dollars. Who is following the money? Why is there so little money for survivors and their rehabilitation? - Addressing evolving forms of trafficking:
The discussions acknowledged the rapid evolution of human trafficking, particularly the use of technology for exploitation, and the need for new strategies to counter it. Law against human trafficking is not fit for purpose and the crime of human trafficking is on the increase. - Strengthening international cooperation:
The event underscored the need for continued and strengthened international collaboration to combat this cross-border crime.
Author: Imelda Poole IBVM
