03/06/2024
Directive adopted by the Council of the European Union
Tougher rules against trafficking in human beings
The Council of the European Union adopted a directive in late May that adds the exploitation of surrogacy, forced marriage and illegal adoption to the forms of exploitation covered by its anti-trafficking legislation. The new rules also strengthen prevention measures, as well as support and assistance to victims.
As in the current directive, new types of exploitation will be punishable by a maximum sentence of at least five years' imprisonment or, in the case of aggravated offenses, at least 10 years' imprisonment. The agreement includes a new exacerbating circumstance related to the dissemination of material based on exploitation, namely the dissemination of visual content of a sexual nature related to the victim using information or communication technologies.
The text will enter into force 20 days after publication in the Gazzetta ufficiale of the EU. Member states will have a maximum of two years to transpose the amended directive into national law.
Published: Monday 03 June 2024 - Last modify: Tuesday 18 June 2024
