The Smile of the Child" participated in the 25th High-level Session of the OSCE Alliance Against Human Trafficking Conference

"The Smile of the Child" participated in the 25th High-level Session of the OSCE Alliance Against Human Trafficking Conference: Strengthening International Cooperation to Combat Child Trafficking

At the 25th Session of the OSCE Alliance Against Human Trafficking Conference, held in Vienna on March 31st - April 1st, 2025, "The Smile of the Child" actively participated, as it has been doing since 2016, organizing an important side event in collaboration with the European Federation for Missing and Sexually Exploited Children - Missing Children Europe (MCE) and the ASTRA organization (Serbia), and with a video contribution from the Federal Police of Belgium. The event, held on April 1st, focused on the connection between missing children and trafficking, highlighting the need for greater awareness and immediate action on this critical issue. Over 40 NGOs and Permanent Missions participated in the parallel event, which, according to feedback, offered a range of innovative approaches to the participants. 

In his intervention, moderator Marck Van den Reeckik, Honorary Ambassador and Head of International Cooperation Partnerships of "The Smile of the Child", in his speech emphasized the importance of cooperation between state authorities and civil society organizations in combating child trafficking. He highlighted the connection between missing children and human trafficking, stressing that children who leave their homes or institutions, such as refugee children, are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and trafficking. He also pointed out the need to recognize other practices, such as forced marriages and illegal adoption, as forms of trafficking. 

During the discussion, there was a review of the work done in this field over the past 20 years, followed by an open debate on current risks and next steps. The speakers emphasized that children who leave their homes, live in institutions, migrate unaccompanied by an adult, or lack basic protection are much more likely to become victims of trafficking. Conversely, child trafficking can also be the cause of their disappearance. The European Hotline for Missing Children (116000), managed by all three organizations, is not only a tool for reporting disappearances but also a vital early warning mechanism for trafficking risks. 

Although the data varies, the patterns remain the same: a significant percentage of missing children are later recognized as victims of exploitation, primarily girls. Concerning trends include trafficking for forced marriages, labor, and criminal activities, often involving children who disappear from institutions or during migration. 

The event stressed the need for quicker and more coordinated responses. It was widely acknowledged that the longer a child remains missing, the fewer the chances of a safe return. Existing legal frameworks, such as the Hague Convention on International Adoption, are often underutilized. 

Civil society plays a critical role in filling these gaps, whether in prevention, immediate response, or post-restoration support. The event concluded with the shared message that the protection of missing children is inextricably linked to the fight against trafficking. This means we must act early, act together, and put the child’s best interests at the heart of every response.