A) Objectives of the pledge:
Human trafficking is a human rights violation that goes against human dignity, liberty and privacy of the individual. Fighting trafficking and other forms of labor exploitation is an ongoing task of every nation. The Icelandic government has recently presented a plan of action in the fight against human trafficking in accordance with Iceland‘s international obligations in this area.
One of the priorities of the Icelandic government is to strengthen the national referral mechanism by establishing a special National Referral Center that provides human trafficking victims with necessary protection, assistance and services. In designing and implementing such a center, cooperation and collaboration will be sought with those who have insight, knowledge and experience in this field or who have interests in the improvements being made, such as e.g. trade unions. In parallel, awareness raising on human trafficking will be launched, and education and expertise strengthened among all those involved in these issues. The Government intends to support the Icelandic Red Cross in activating a helpline for potential trafficking victims.
B) Action plan:
Accordingly, for the years 2020-23, the Icelandic Government and the Icelandic Red Cross hereby pledge:
– To establish a National Referral Center, responsible for coordinating work procedures and responses on suspected human trafficking cases, work on prevention and education, and promote awareness within the community.
– To activate the Red Cross Helpline 1717 for potential trafficking victims
– To strengthen the expertise and skills of professionals, such as employees of the judicial system, social services and the health system who assist on cases of human trafficking of the nature and characteristics of various manifestations of human trafficking.
– To promote awareness raising and education among workers, with a particular focus on those who come from abroad on their legal rights and employers‘ obligations.
– To promote public awareness raising in order to reduce demand for services thriving on human trafficking.
C) Indicators for measuring progress:
– Establishment of a National Referral Center and to activate a helpline.
– Provision of grants for educational activities and public awareness raising. For this the Government will earmark 5 million ISK.
D) Resource implications:
N/A
