Ukraine — Vulnerability to Trafficking in Persons and Labour Exploitation in Ukraine (June 2024)

The full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation in February 2022 has triggered mass displacement and a humanitarian crisis, heightening the population’s vulnerability to protection risks, including trafficking in persons, particularly among displaced and conflict-affected communities. Despite comprehensive responses aimed at mitigating an expected surge in trafficking, significant risks persist as coping strategies are increasingly strained. Anti-trafficking actors across Ukraine have been vocal about the risks of trafficking, based on pre-existing trafficking trends within the country and region, knowledge of trafficking in emergencies from previous crises, and the specificities of this crisis.

This report examines protection risks related to the war in Ukraine, focusing on labour exploitation, travel-related deception, and the awareness and accessibility of support systems. Utilizing data from the IOM General Population Survey, the report aims to support evidence-based programming, policy-making, advocacy, and further research.