National Plan of Action against Trafficking in Human Beings

National Plan of Action against Trafficking in Human Beings (2005) (Opens New Window) (PDF, 287 kB)

Trafficking in human beings is one of the most widespread human rights problems today. Poverty, unemployment, armed conflicts and other crises are the most usual reasons for people leaving their home countries either voluntarily or under coercion in search for more secure living conditions. In the combat against trafficking, it is crucial to protect the rights of victims of abuse by the best possible means.

Even in Finland, there is reason to actively take measures to prevent trafficking in human beings and to help victims. According to certain estimates, Finland is a country of transit or destination for hundreds of victims of trafficking. Most often, victims come from countries that are geographically close to Finland and have a lower standard of living. Trafficking is supported, both in Finland and in other countries, by the demand for cheap labour as well as for prostitution.

In its report on the human rights policy of Finland, submitted to Parliament on 31 March 2004, the Government expressed its commitment to the preparation of a national programme of action against trafficking in human beings.