Ukraine refugees still face trafficking threat

CARE has issued a fresh warning about trafficking of Ukraine refugees and urged action by UK authorities.

A major new report by the United Nations has predicted a 5 per cent surge in Ukrainian trafficking victims being identified in 2023.

The study, by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), also expects a staggering 5.6 million asylum applications.

CARE raised concerns about a heightened trafficking threat when Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year.

Ukrainians risk being trafficked to the UK by criminals and falling into exploitation after reaching the UK and claiming asylum.

Several concerning loopholes were identified in the UK Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme.

Commenting on the UN report Rebecca Stevenson, a trafficking policy expert at CARE, said:

“Almost a year has elapsed since Russia invaded Ukraine but the threat to Ukrainians leaving the country remains high.

“Traffickers are operating on the borders of the country to intercept and exploit vulnerable women and children.

“It is crucial that UK Ministers continue to raise the alarm about this issue, and work with European agencies to confront it.

“Ministers must also demonstrate that they are providing ongoing care for Ukrainians who have entered the UK.

“Thousands of Ukrainian nationals came here under the Homes for Ukraine scheme and were placed in various contexts.

“What checks are local governments and agencies carrying out to ensure people aren’t falling off the radar and into modern slavery?

“CARE constantly emphasised the need for ongoing welfare checks, but it is difficult to get a sense of what’s happening on the ground.

“Research suggests refugees are struggling to find their own housing and work. Traffickers will prey on these individuals.

“We call on the UK Government, local authorities, and other relevant agencies to provide reassurance about refugee welfare.

“It would be an awful failing if any person who has come to our shores for sanctuary should be let down.”

ENDS

Notes for Editors

CARE provides analysis of law and policy from a Christian perspective. Media enquiries: jamie.gillies@care.org.uk