The Council of Europe Convention on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings has come into force. It says the victims of the world's third-biggest illegal money-making trade after drugs and arms must be recognised so they are not treated as criminals.
The victims will be given support for reintegration into society, and people who use a victim can be criminally prosecuted.
Another of the main features in this first European treaty against trafficking is explained by Council of Europe Secretary General Terry Davis:
"That person should be given a period of time, let's say 30 days to recover and to reflect what they want to do. They should not be immediately deported. They should be given an opportunity to think whether they are willing to give evidence in court. Because the most important thing of all, is to focus on the criminals, to catch them and prosecute them!"
A renewable residence permit may be granted in cases of need, such as if a victim is assisting in a criminal investigation.
The Convention applies to all forms of trafficking exploitation, notably sexual, forced labour or removal of organs. The Convention also says victims are entitled to receive compensation.
Fourteen countries have ratified the Convention, out of the Council of Europe's 47 member states. Most European countries have taken the first steps for ratification.
Every year, the Council says, more than 600,000 people are sold in Europe. It calls the Convention an effective weapon to fight modern slavery.
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