CONVENTION OF THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE FOR ACTION AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING

In May 2005, adopted the Convention of the Council of Europe Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (CETS 197). The Convention contains a definition of trafficking in Article 4, paying particular attention to victims under 18 years. It contains specific provisions regarding child victims of trafficking. Also, during and after the investigation and during the court proceedings, victims receive special protection. With regard to children, take into account the best interests of the child.

Recommendation (2001) 16 of the Council of Europe for protection of children against sexual exploitation

It calls for criminalization of acts that constitute sexual exploitation of children, particularly child prostitution, child pornography and trafficking of children for sexual exploitation. It also provides that States should provide special measures for child victims of sexual exploitation during court proceedings and ensure that children's rights are protected during the proceedings that the judicial authorities should give these cases priority, and that the limitation period for criminal proceedings should begin when the child becomes an adult.

Bulgaria is primarily a country of origin and transit for victims with major countries of destination for victims (including children) in 2013 - Germany, Greece, Austria, Belgium; Italy, Spain, France, Switzerland, Turkey; Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Czech Republic and Poland.

First report of Eurostat Europe for trafficking 04.2013, the database for 2008, 2009 and 2010

Implications for the countries of origin of the victims:

- EU: Bulgaria and Romania

- Non-EU countries: Nigeria and China.

The roots of the problem:

Poverty and lack of education

Lack of information, social experience, experience for safe migration

Methods of recruitment - work and / or education abroad, falling in love and emotional attachment to the trafficker and / or intentions of marriage.

The most vulnerable are:

Young women and girls;

Children without parents and / or without supportive family environment (eg. Parents abroad);

Men and women of working age (homeless, unemployed, low level of education and awareness);