University Seminar on Human Trafficking
The University Seminar on Human Trafficking is an annual event organized by Helsinki España as part of its program of free lectures and seminars focused on the defense of human rights. These spaces aim to raise awareness and foster dialogue on current issues such as human trafficking, the death penalty, violent extremism, and gender-based violence, among others.
In the 2024 edition, the University Seminar on Human Trafficking adopted a broad and international perspective. This year, our goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue by combining the academic approach, the governmental perspective from law enforcement agencies, and the experience of organizations working directly with victims. We believe that this integration will significantly enrich the program and offer a deeper insight into human trafficking and its multiple dimensions.
This seminar is an initiative of Helsinki España, funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation, as part of the 2024 Grants for the Dissemination, Promotion, and Protection of Human Rights, in collaboration with Casa Árabe.
Background
Human trafficking is a global phenomenon that affects virtually every country, either as points of origin, transit, or destination. Known as the modern-day slavery, this grave human rights violation is also one of the most lucrative criminal activities worldwide, second only to drug trafficking and comparable to arms trafficking.
This crime encompasses various forms of exploitation, including forced labor or services, slavery, servitude, sexual exploitation, and, to a lesser extent, organ harvesting, forced marriages, and the recruitment of minors in armed conflicts. Additionally, the 2023 Global Slavery Index estimates that nearly 50 million people live in modern slavery conditions daily, a figure that has significantly increased over the past five years.
Human Trafficking in Spain
Spain is both a transit and destination country for trafficking victims, making it one of the most profitable criminal activities, particularly due to its links with sexual exploitation. The Ministry of the Interior reported that in 2023 alone, a total of 1,466 victims of human trafficking and exploitation crimes were identified, 18 of whom were minors. A total of 409 investigations were carried out, leading to the arrest of 923 individuals and the dismantling of 109 criminal groups or organizations.
Spain holds a prominent position in terms of prostitution demand. Recent data estimates that around 114,576 women are involved in prostitution in the country. Spain ranks as the top European country in prostitution consumption and third worldwide.
These alarming figures highlight the urgent need to address human trafficking and modern slavery. Raising public awareness, strengthening policies on prevention, protection, and prosecution of offenders, and providing comprehensive support to victims are essential. This is why this seminar seeks to “Break the Darkness, Face the Truth. Join the Conversation.”
Objectives of the Human Trafficking Seminar
- Raise awareness about human trafficking
Promoting greater awareness of this crime and its impact on society, particularly among university youth. - Support national anti-trafficking strategies through prevention
In line with Action Line 1.1.C of the National Strategic Plan against Human Trafficking and Exploitation 2021-2023 by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior, this seminar aims to reinforce national prevention strategies. Through educational and awareness activities, the goal is to improve public knowledge about trafficking and strengthen institutional and civic responses to this crime. - Promote respect for human rights and legal mechanisms for protection and prosecution
Educating university students on the relationship between human rights and human trafficking. Additionally, the seminar will address mechanisms for combating trafficking, including legal protection, victim assistance, and measures to prosecute those responsible for this crime. - Raise awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda related to trafficking
Human trafficking is a significant obstacle to sustainable development. This seminar aims to raise awareness among participants about the connection between trafficking and the SDGs, particularly those related to gender equality (SDG 5), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16). Critical reflection and active engagement in actions to eradicate trafficking will be encouraged. - Alert about modern recruitment and exploitation mechanisms
Given the increasing use of digital technologies and social media, the role of these platforms in victim recruitment by criminal networks will be highlighted. The seminar will seek to educate young people on the risks associated with these tools and promote their responsible and safe use. - Encourage youth action and commitment in the fight against trafficking
This seminar aims not only to inform but also to inspire young people to engage in prevention, reporting, and victim support initiatives. Participation in awareness and social action projects will be encouraged, as well as collaboration with organizations working to eradicate human trafficking.
Annual Editions
2024
Title: International Protection in the Context of Human Trafficking
Date: March 14, 2024
Location: Universidad Pontificia Comillas and streaming
Participants: 750 in-person and online
2025
Title: Break the Darkness. Face the Truth. Join the Conversation
Date: April 7, 2025
Location: Casa Árabe and streaming
Participants: 150+ in-person and online
Alumnis Testimonials
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