Trafficking in women for the purpose of sexual exploitation

The Committee has adopted the report drawn up by Susan WADDINGTON (PES, UK), which strongly condemns trafficking in women for the purpose of sexual exploitation and goes on to outline an EU policy to combat the problem. The main priority, according to the committee, is for the Member States to implement in full the Joint Action adopted on 24 February 1997 on action to combat trafficking in human beings and sexual exploitation of children. It should be remembered that the prime victims are women from non-EU countries. They need to be given social, health and psychological care, legal assistance, safe houses and temporary residence status. The committee emphasised the prevention of trafficking and the adoption of punishments proportionate to the crime. It also believes the Member States should apply the principle of extra-territoriality to individuals and organisations engaged in trafficking in women. The Commission is asked to give priority to this issue in EU development aid programmes in Eastern Europe, Asia, Latin America, the ACP and Mediterranean area. The funds earmarked for measures against such trafficking under the STOP programme should be concentrated on the detection and prosecution of traffickers, information, prevention and the rehabilitation of victims. �