Thank you, Madam Chair,

Dear Dr. Johnstone,

Thank you for your comprehensive report and the vital work of the OSCE in combatting human trafficking. On behalf of Albania, I express our deep gratitude for the OSCE’s steadfast support, including initiatives like simulation-based training and financial intelligence tools to disrupt trafficking networks. These innovations reflect the OSCE’s leadership in addressing complex trafficking challenges and underscore the importance of a coordinated, multi-dimensional approach.

Albania has made considerable strides in its anti-trafficking efforts, with a survivor-centered approach at the core of our strategy. Key accomplishments include the formalization of the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) in 2023, involving 15 state and non-state institutions. This mechanism ensures standardized processes for the identification, referral, and protection of victims, particularly in vulnerable communities such as the Roma and Egyptian populations. Our newly drafted National Action Plan for 2024-2025, coordinated by the Ministry of Interior, prioritizes victim protection and labor exploitation prevention, supported by strengthened collaboration across government sectors and civil society.

However, we acknowledge that challenges remain, and it is essential to continue refining and expanding our programs.

The OSCE Presence in Albania has been a crucial ally in updating the NRM, establishing the Survivor’s Board, and developing innovative responses, such as Albania’s first Hackathon on technology-facilitated trafficking. The new Intersectoral Strategy for the Protection of Crime Victims (2024-2030), aligned with EU standards, further supports inter-institutional cooperation and raises public awareness, ensuring a comprehensive societal response to trafficking.

We commend your office for maintaining a focus on innovative training tools. This positive approach continues in Albania, thanks to the Presence’s support and your office’s expertise and coordination. Notably, the Presence’s organization of the first-ever Hackathon to tackle technology-facilitated human trafficking and the upcoming simulation-based training are examples of the need for new, adaptive methods in capacity building for combatting human trafficking.

We are pleased to see ongoing collaboration between your office and the Presence in Albania in this area and look forward to further progress.

We recognize that there is more work to be done, and we remain committed to enhancing our efforts through continuous partnership with the OSCE and international stakeholders. Together, we can build on our progress to overcome challenges and drive meaningful change. Thank you  to you , and to your able team for your dedication to this crucial cause.

Thank you