Simulation Trainings in Anti-Trafficking Efforts

A Simulation training is an interactive, scenario-based learning approach designed to enhance the capacity of stakeholders involved in combating human trafficking. It replicates real-life situations to help participants enhance practical skills, improve coordination, and test existing procedures.

This training typically brings together professionals from various sectors, including law enforcement, judiciary, social services, immigration authorities, and civil society organizations. Through role-playing and case-based scenarios, participants engage in decision-making processes, apply legal frameworks, and refine victim identification and assistance mechanisms.

The main objectives of simulation trainings are:

• Strengthening multi-agency cooperation by fostering collaboration between key actors involved in victim identification, protection, and referral as well in judicial proceedings
• Testing and enhancing procedures and tools, including National Referral Mechanisms (NRMs) and practical resources such as lists of indicators for detection and identification of victims of human trafficking and identification and referral sheets.
• Enhancing practical skills in handling trafficking cases, ensuring a victim-sensitive and rights-based response.
• Identifying gaps and challenges in existing policies and practices, leading to improved frameworks and operational guidelines.

Simulation trainings also promote long-term sustainability by encouraging countries to integrate such training into their regular professional development programs.

North Macedonia: Simulation training and Moot trial, Police Training Centre, March 2025

Photo from the simulation

The simulation training, held in Skopje in March 2025, within the framework of the HF III anti-trafficking action and the EU4FAST project, focuses on investigations and judicial proceedings in anti-trafficking cases, including the use of technology and electronic evidence. The training follows a human-rights centred approach, with a particular attention on child victims of trafficking, and emphasises multi-agency coordination. A Moot Trial, jointly organised with the Foundation René Cassin - International Institute for Human Rights, takes place at the end of the simulation, making the link to the relevant provisions of the European Convention on Human Rights.

VIDEOS

       Radio play “The Vicious Circle”

The Action “Strengthening anti - trafficking action in North Macedonia” is part of the joint European Union/Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Turkey 2023 – 2026”.