Fight against human trafficking: Council and European Parliament strike deal to strengthen rules

The Belgian EU presidency of the Council and representatives of the European Parliament reached a provisional agreement to add forced marriage, illegal adoption and surrogacy as types of exploitation covered by the EU’s anti-trafficking law. The update of the directive on preventing and combating trafficking in human beings will also require EU countries to make sure that people knowingly using services provided by victims of trafficking can face sanctions. Other amendments concern the strengthening of victims' support and assistance as well as prevention measures.

Including these forms of trafficking in the EU anti-trafficking law will take into account the prevalence and relevance of these forms of exploitation.

The provisional agreement will be submitted to the member state’s representatives in the Council (Coreper) for confirmation. It will also have to be formally adopted by both institutions.

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