DURRES, Aug. 5 – Albania’s Ministry of Interior says the country has made progress against human traffickers, increasing convictions and raising awareness.
In 2014, 18 traffickers were convicted, compared to just three in 2013, said Deputy Minister Elona Gjebrea, who added more than 125 potential trafficking victims had been identified last year.
Gjebrea, the ministry’s number two official, made the comments at an event in Albania’s largest port city, Durres, marking the Global Day Against Trafficking of Persons.
She said the performance of state structures combating human trafficking has improved significantly.
“Trafficking of people is a serious crime that violates human dignity and we are here today to raise our voice for the protection of the trafficking victims’ rights,” Gjebrea said.
She added, “Combating human trafficking is a top government priority.”
Gjebrea’s comments come after Albania’s government was rebuked by a U.S. Department of State report on human trafficking, which noted some improvements, but added the country remains a source and destination for trafficking of men, women and children.
