HUMAN TRAFFICkING DURING THE MIGRANT CRISIS IN THE BALКANS (CASE STUDY: ALBANIA)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51738/kpolisa.2026.1r.nczsakszKeywords:
Albania, human trafficking, migration, unaccompanied minors, international organizations, victim protectionAbstract
The migration crisis in the Western Balkans (2015–2020) has increased Albania’s vulnerability to human trafficking. As a transit and increasingly destination country, Albania faced challenges in identifying, protecting, and reintegrating victims, particularly migrants, refugees, and unaccompanied minors. This study examines the legal and institutional framework, including the National Referral Mechanism and cooperation with NGOs, as well as the role of international actors (UNHCR, IOM, GRETA, OSCE). Despite progress in legislation and victim protection mechanisms, challenges remain in victim identification, professional training, and inter-agency coordination. The study highlights the need for regional cooperation, a human-rights-based approach, and technological tools for more effective anti-trafficking measures.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Zaklina Spalevic, Žaklina Spalević, Anita Klikovac, Stefan Zdravković
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