Ecorys supports the European Commission in a study on the misuse of online platforms and search engines for trafficking in human beings.

Trafficking in human beings remains a serious and evolving threat. In an increasingly digital environment, online platforms and search engines may be misused to facilitate different stages of trafficking, from recruitment to exploitation. Understanding these dynamics is essential to strengthening prevention and response efforts.

The European Commission (Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs and Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology) has assigned a Consortium led by Ecorys Europe EEIG – GEIE the task to carry out the Study on the misuse of Very Large Online Platforms and Very Large Online Search Engines to commit trafficking in human beings in the EU.

The study aims to provide the European Commission with an evidence-based understanding of how Very Large Online Platforms and Very Large Online Search Engines may be misused for trafficking in human beings, as well as to increase awareness of the related systemic risks online. Particular attention is paid to trafficking for the purposes of sexual and labour exploitation, the exploitation of criminal activities, the removal of organs, and the exploitation of surrogacy.

To support this work, the research team is conducting extensive data collection activities and stakeholder consultations to gather insights from relevant actors across the EU.

Privatnost i zaštita podataka

Data collection and participation in the study’s consultation activities is governed by a dedicated privacy framework in line with EU data protection rules.

You can consult the privacy statement ovdje: