Awareness Campaign in Odesa for European Anti-Trafficking Day
An awareness campaign was held in Odesa for European Anti-Trafficking Day.
Every year on October 18, European countries observe this day, initiated by the European Commission in 2007, to highlight the issues of modern slavery and the need to protect victims' rights.
In the context of the full-scale war in Ukraine, the fight against human trafficking has gained particular relevance. The war has created numerous risks, including an increase in the number of internally displaced persons, unemployment, loss of documents, forced relocations, and captivity.
Prior to the observance of European Anti-Trafficking Day, the Department of Labor and Social Policy of the Odesa City Council organized an informational campaign to draw public attention to the issue of human trafficking under wartime conditions and to enhance awareness of exploitation risks and protective measures.
The event involved specialists from the Odesa City Social Services Center, representatives of NGOs working in this field, the Southern Interregional Center for Free Legal Aid, the National Police, cadets of the Odesa State University of Internal Affairs, and the public. During the event, informational leaflets and brochures were distributed, and counseling services were provided.
Everyone can contribute to combating human trafficking by being attentive, not remaining indifferent, and spreading accurate information about this issue.
Additional information:
In Odesa, 17 individuals received the status of victims of human trafficking throughout 2025.
If you are aware of any cases of human trafficking or any form of exploitation, or if you have been a victim of such a crime, please contact:
- 102 – police;
- 1547 – anti-trafficking hotline;
- 527 – National hotline for anti-trafficking and migrant counseling;
- 112 – EU emergency services.
Individuals who consider themselves victims of human trafficking have the right to seek assistance:
- to establish victim status at the Odesa Regional Administration (Kanatna St. 83, tel. 048 753 11 94);
- to receive one-time financial assistance for those recognized as victims of human trafficking: at local social protection offices;
- to access social services (legal, psychological, temporary shelter, employment, etc.) at the Odesa City Social Services Center: Odesa, Yitzhak Rabin St. 7, tel.: (048)784 92 17, (048)784 92 66, (048)784 92 67 or at the Department of Labor and Social Policy of the Odesa City Council (048) 705 12 63.
