Human trafficking and exploitation: an underestimated social problem

Human trafficking and exploitation are among the issues that still receive too little public attention. However, current figures from the Federal Criminal Police Office, which has been recording such cases since 2000, show a significant increase: 576 Investigation proceedings were initiated in Germany in 2024 for human trafficking and exploitation 13 per cent more than in the previous year.(Source: BKA, 2024)¹
At the same time, it can be assumed that the actual number of people affected is significantly higher. Human trafficking and exploitation are considered to be Control crime, as many proceedings are initiated by police checks and not by reports. This makes it difficult to identify those affected and emphasises the urgent need to strengthen prevention, education and protective measures.

A look at the European level

The picture is also complex at EU level: 9,678 people affected of human trafficking were registered in 2024 - a decrease of 8 per cent compared to 2023. 46 per cent of all those affected.
While the figures rose in 12 EU Member States, they fell in 14. It is assumed that improved identification and reporting procedures contribute to the increases could. Nevertheless, the recording of cases remains a key challenge, as Human trafficking often takes place in secret.
As the KOK emphasises„The perpetrators operate in the border area between the legal and illegal economy, which makes it difficult to identify the victims.“ (Source: KOK, 29.01.2025)².

What IRC and its partners are doing: The TIES and REACH projects

As part of the projects TIES (Transnational Initiative on Enhancing early (Seleven)Identification of Victims of labour exploitation and forced criminality) and REACH (Resilience through Enhanced Access to Comprehensive Help- Strengthening Protection for Victims and Survivors of Sexual Violence in Exploitation and Trafficking), IRC Germany is working together with anti-trafficking counselling centres and partner organisations in several EU countries to improve prevention and protection measures.

REACH - Protection for victims of sexual violence
The REACH-The project addresses the need for support and protection for victims and survivors of sexual violence in the context of exploitation and human trafficking (including sexual exploitation, sexual slavery/subjugation, forced prostitution/violence in prostitution and forced marriage). The aim is to close the gap between the needs of clients and the support services already available.

TIES - Early detection of labour exploitation and forced criminality
The TIES-Project supports victims of labour exploitation and exploitation of criminal activities. The project uses innovative approaches such as digital street work and trains frontline professionals to better recognise and refer potential victims. The project also promotes European dialogue in order to sustainably improve systems for combating human trafficking.