Status of a Person Who Has Survived Human Trafficking: What Does It Provide in Practice?

“Svitlo Nadii” Charity Organization, as a member of the Counter–Trafficking NGO Coalition, has for many years worked in the field of preventing human trafficking, protecting the rights of survivors, and developing the referral system in Poltava region.

In their work, the organization’s specialists regularly encounter cases of labour exploitation, forced labour, forced begging, and other forms of human trafficking. At the same time, practice shows that many people are unaware of the possibility of obtaining official status as a person affected by human trafficking and accessing the support mechanisms provided by the state.

That is why today we are highlighting one of the important instruments for protecting survivors’ rights — the establishment of the status of a person affected by human trafficking.

According to the National Social Service of Ukraine, obtaining this status does not require a court decision or completed criminal proceedings. What matters is applying to the authorized bodies and reporting circumstances that may indicate that a person has been in a human trafficking situation.

• citizens of Ukraine;
• foreign nationals;
• stateless persons staying in Ukraine who have been affected by human trafficking.

To do this, it is necessary to submit an application to the local state administration or local self-government body at the place of stay. After the application is reviewed and the circumstances are assessed, the person may be granted the status of a person affected by human trafficking.

The status is not only an official confirmation of the violation of a person’s rights, but also provides access to state support mechanisms, including:

• a one-time financial payment from the state;
• social services;
• psychological assistance;
• medical support;
• legal assistance;
• support in restoring documents and protecting rights.

For Poltava region, this issue remains relevant, as specialists continue to identify cases in which people do not seek help for years due to a lack of information or because they do not consider themselves affected by human trafficking. That is why spreading information about available protection mechanisms is an important component of prevention and support for survivors.

Specialists emphasize that seeking help in a timely manner is an important step toward restoring safety, protecting rights, and returning to a full life.