Human trafficking and exploitation - a form of organized crime in the European Union

Abstract

Organized crime represents a complex transnational phenomenon, involving structured criminal groups that operate beyond national borders and affect the social, economic, and legal stability of states. Among its most serious manifestations is human trafficking, a phenomenon that violates fundamental human rights and brings immense profits to criminal networks. Human trafficking, as defined in European legislation, is one of the most complex forms of organized crime, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and minors, who are exploited either sexually or through forced labor. It is considered necessary to examine, through statistical data, the scope and characteristics of this form of crime, regulated at both European and international levels. The paper analyzes recent trends, relying on statistics provided by agencies such as Europol and Eurostat, highlighting rafficking routes, victim profiles, and the modus operandi of criminal networks. Additionally, the main forms of human exploitation regulated by criminal law are detailed, including sexual exploitation and forced labor, emphasizing the role of transnational organized crime in facilitating this phenomenon. In the context of the European regulatory framework, the paper explores the legislative and institutional measures adopted by the European Union, as well as their effectiveness in combating human trafficking, utilizing data on conviction rates and international judicial cooperation. Moreover, it addresses the legal and institutional challenges that hinder effective counteraction, including underreporting and difficulties in the legal protection of victims.