The study found that two crucial individual factors – a history of abuse and a vulnerable emotional state – could often be traced back to a dysfunctional family situation, underpinned by material deprivation. Trends identified included that ever younger children are becoming victims of trafficking, growing numbers of girls from Nigeria being the victims of sexual exploitation, an increase in the number of unaccompanied asylum‑seeking children who are at risk of being trafficked, a growing number of cases of children with cognitive and developmental disabilities being victims of trafficking, and a growing share of boys for both sexual and labour exploitation.

Furthermore, the study notes that child victims of sexual exploitation can end up being exploited as adults in the prostitution sector. Additionally, the study calls for more focus on addressing demand that fuels child trafficking in all its forms. Finally the study concludes with recommendations for authorities at national and European level.