The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) France has launched a reintegration project for victims of trafficking in European Union (EU) who have opted for voluntary return.

The Coordinated Approach for the Reintegration of Victims of Trafficking (CARE) project, recently launched in Paris, aims to assess the needs of 260 victims of trafficking who are contemplating the option of assisted voluntary return from Austria, France, Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom in countries of Africa, Asia and South America. Out of the 260 victims to whom IOM intends to provide pre-departure and immediate post-arrival assistance (such as the reception at the airport, safe accommodation, medical check-ups, secondary transportation to final destination), 130 will benefit from reintegration assistance. The reintegration package will include medical care, temporary housing, child care, income-generating activities.

"Victims of trafficking experience cruelty, abuse and inhuman treatment. The perpetrators of this heinous crime are exploiting their vulnerability. Those willing to return to their countries of origin would take the step if given a chance and necessary support to reduce the risks of re-trafficking. The support that the CARE project offers with its in-built reintegration programme addresses their needs and help them make the decision", says Nazanine Nozarian, the project’s coordinator, in a press release.

According to EUROSTAT’s Trafficking in Human Beings 2013 report, EU Member States reported in 2010 a total number of 9,528 victims. However, the actual numbers are much more.

Source: http://www.iom.int/cms/en/sites/iom/home/news-and-views/press-briefing-notes/pbn-2013/pbn-listing/victims-of-trafficking-helped-to.html