Over 6.7 million Ukrainians have fled their country since the outbreak of war on February 24, 2022, initiated by the Russian invasion. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), humanitarian responses have successfully mitigated trafficking risks for these displaced populations, but concerns remain.
UNODC's recent report, based on interviews with around 1,600 displaced individuals and extensive data analysis, reveals Europe has effectively established protective measures to aid Ukrainian refugees. These measures include maintaining visa-free access for refugees and facilitating rapid access to temporary protection, demonstrating a strong governmental response to their plight.
“Strong anti-trafficking policies can play a pivotal role,” states Angela Me, chief of research and analysis at UNODC. She emphasizes the effectiveness of unified government action against human trafficking within the EU, which has established collective efforts through targeted campaigns, victim identification protocols, and coupled actions between state and non-state actors across transit and destination countries.
Despite these measures, the study warns of the inherent risks faced by those who have been displaced. “Displacement increases the risks of trafficking,” warns Siobhán Mullally, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Trafficking. Vulnerabilities exacerbated by precarious housing and employment conditions make many refugees susceptible to exploitation, including participation in prostitution and online sex work, particularly among female refugees.
Further complicity arises when considering children, where recent evaluations by Ukrainian authorities identified 277 human trafficking cases between 2022 and 2023. Notably, 49% of these cases involved labor exploitation, 29% sexual exploitation, and 21% forced criminal activity. Disturbingly, 22 instances of child trafficking related to forced labor, begging, and illegal adoption have been reported.
Turning to the local response within France, particularly the department of Aisne, the humanitarian effort continues to evolve. Since the war began, Aisne has welcomed nearly 450 Ukrainian refugees, demonstrating significant administrative mobilization to facilitate their integration. Starting March 1, 2022, weekly meetings coordinated by various state services focused on addressing the needs of these displaced individuals, covering health care, housing, and education.
Fanny Anor, the Prefect of Aisne, confirmed the state’s commitment to supporting the Ukrainian people. Over 1 million euros have been invested locally since early 2022 to assist with housing and other needs—305 temporary residence permits have been issued, with 435 people officially accommodated, 305 adults and 130 children. Anor expressed her appreciation for the unified efforts of local authorities, organizations, and citizens, reinforcing the notion of collective responsibility toward this humanitarian crisis.
She also highlighted specific challenges faced by the refugees, noting 67 Ukrainians have since left the department, 30 no longer require assistance, and there have been 21 new emergency housing requests logged at the end of 2024.
Returning to the overarching issues of human trafficking, the plight of Ukrainian refugees necessitates continuous monitoring and vigilance. The UNODC study emphasizes the importance of sustained government cooperation and civil engagement to protect refugees from potential exploitation.
Both UNODC and local officials agree: without swift action, assistance, and vigilance, the risk of human trafficking—especially among vulnerable groups like women and children—remains alarmingly high. The message is clear: the passage of time should not equate to complacency, and widespread support and protective measures are needed to continue ensuring the safety and dignity of Ukrainian refugees.
With the humanitarian efforts still underway, and acknowledging the achievements made, the international community, local authorities, and citizens must remain determined to confront the challenges posed by human trafficking, ensuring comprehensive support for those who have fled war and violence.
Three years after the initial invasion, the narrative of protection and safety for Ukrainian refugees is still being written. The commitment shown by states like France, alongside global organizations, provides hope for these displaced individuals. Yet, as the crisis continues, the pursuit of justice and protection must remain at the forefront.