Question 2010 11 To Trade Unions

Page 1:Baltic Sea Parliamentary ConferenceThe BSPC Working Group on Civil Security19 November 2010Regarding trafficking in human beingsAt the 18" Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference (BSPC), which was held during the summer of 2009 in Ny-borg, Denmark, it was decided to launch a political working group.on civil security/trafficking in human be-ings. The group consists of parliamentarians from national and regional parliaments in the Baltic Sea Region.During the spring of 2010 the Working Group contacted various trade unions and employers’ associations inthe Baltic Sea States asking if these organisations have an action plan or program regarding the preventionof trafficking in human beings, and if they have made any initiatives that ensure the help to victims of humantrafficking.The overall conclusion from the answers that the Working Group received was that only a few initiatives havebeen taken, and there seems to be a need for a more focused effort regarding the prevention of human traf-ficking and the help to the victims.Trafficking in human beings is very often associated with prostitution, but it is important to recognize thathuman trafficking is not just about sexual exploitation of women and girls. It is also about labour exploitationof both sexes, adults as well as children. Human trafficking and forced labour exist in all kinds of professionsand industries. It is the conviction of the Working Group that the unique position of the trade unions and em-ployers’ associations, with their broad contacts with a wide range of sectors, enables them to make an impor-tant effort regarding the prevention of human trafficking.Against this background, the Working Group would like to ask if it would be possible for your organization toincorporate the prevention of human trafficking on its agenda. The Working Group is very interested in hav-ing a dialogue with the trade unions and the employers’ associations and welcomes any initiatives for furthersteps and discussion. You are most welcome to contact the Working Group at the address mentioned below.On behalf of the BSPC Working Group on Civil Security/Human Trafficking$ Line BarfodChairman of the Working GroupPage 2:Secretariat of the BSPC Working Group on Civil Security/Human Trafficking:Ms Mette VestergaardThe Danish ParliamentThe International SecretariatChristiansborg PalaceDK-1240 Copenhagen KDenmarkPh. +45 33 37 55 17E-mail: mette. vestergaard@ft.dk