This study from the WODC investigated the organization and implementation of categorical accommodation and assistance (CAA) for victims of trafficking in human beings (THB) in four European countries. The countries examined for this report were Belgium, Spain, the Czech Republic, and Italy. The study found that the governments in all four countries had policies in place to protect and assist victims of THB and that the implementation of CAA was left to the staff of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The study had three primary objectives: 1) what are the objectives of CAA for victims of THB in the selected countries and what is their target group; 2) how is the CAA for victims of THB organized and implemented in each country and do any problems exist in the implementation; and 3) what are the perceived advantages and disadvantages of CAA for victims of THB?

To obtain data for the study, the researchers performed a literature survey and conducted interviews with 22 representatives of ministries, specialized NGOs providing CAA, and other relevant institutions. The detailed findings of each country’s CAA policies and practices are presented in the report. The study’s results indicate that while each country has developed a set of policies and practices that work for victims in their country, a lack of independent evaluation studies means that it is not possible to determine which country has the most effective and successful set of CAA policies and procedures. Tables, figures, references, and appendixes.

To read the full report, please click here.