Trafficking is not only a serious violation of human rights but also an individual and a public health problem at the same time. However, to date, there has been minimal engagement by the global health community in the dialogue on or in response to trafficking, with the health needs of survivors having received limited attention compared to law-enforcement and immigration responses (Van der Laan P., 2011; WHO 2012; Zimmerman, 2017). Healthcare professionals are amongst the very few service providers victims may encounter while still in a trafficking situation. If equipped with the right tools and knowledge, they can be the first line of detection and protection for presumed victims.

This e-learning course, designed by five victim support organizations within the framework of the EU-funded project AMELIE, is centred around providing support to trafficked persons in a healthcare setting. This initiative aims to increase awareness of human trafficking among healthcare professionals, help them to identify victims and provide catered care through a gender- and trauma-sensitive approach.

The course provides core information on human trafficking, victims’ rights and access to healthcare, the importance of healthcare professionals in anti-trafficking efforts, the provision of trauma-informed, gender-sensitive and culturally competent care, the identification of trafficking victims, communication with survivors, safe referral, the long-term role of medical personnel, and the impact of Covid-19 in service provision. The ultimate goal is to help healthcare professionals recognise the indicators of human trafficking and facilitate survivors’ access to appropriate care.

For any additional information or clarification, you may contact at: amelie-project@kmop.org

Bibliography

Cathy Zimmermann, Ligia Kiss, Human trafficking and exploitation: A global health concern, PLOS, 2017 (https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1002437)

Van der Laan P et al. Cross-border trafficking in human beings: prevention and intervention strategies for reducing sexual exploitation. Campbell Systematic Reviews, 2011

World Health Organization, Human Trafficking, 2012, WHO/RHR/12.42