In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed July 30 as the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons to draw the attention of the global community and raise awareness.
The observance of this day helps to draw attention to the plight of victims of this crime, as well as to encourage people to actively help victims and combat human trafficking.
Human trafficking is a crime that is subject to criminal liability. Anyone, regardless of age, gender, financial or social status, can be affected by it.
У сучасному світі торгівлю людьми визнано кримінально-карним злочином, який за рівнем доходів випереджають лише продаж наркотичних речовин та зброї.
The hostilities that have been taking place on the territory of our country for more than 10 years have increased the vulnerability of Ukrainians to human trafficking. Since February 24, 2022, with the beginning of Russia's large-scale invasion of Ukraine, the risk of becoming a victim of exploitation has increased dramatically.
According to the Office of the Prosecutor General, 116 criminal offenses under Article 149 (Human Trafficking) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine were registered in January-December 2024, and 55 people were recognized as victims. According to the National Social Service, in 2024, 182 people were recognized as victims of human trafficking, which is 64 more than in 2023.
Although the actual number of cases of human trafficking often remains unknown for a long time after the conflict, as victims may not realize they are being exploited and need time to seek help, it is clear that the war in Ukraine has contributed to the increase in human trafficking.
According to information published by the National Social Service of Ukraine, as of July 2025 alone, 129 people were recognized as victims of human trafficking.
Today, Ukraine faces many challenges in this area, but the relevant institutions are making every effort to provide the victims with the necessary assistance and protection, as well as to take exhaustive measures to bring the perpetrators of this shameful crime to justice.