On 11-12 February 2019, the EU-funded South Programme III supported the organisation in Rabat of the first reflection workshop on the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) for victims of human trafficking in Morocco. The event, organised by the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (ONUDC) and the Moroccan authorities, in partnership with the Council of Europe, allowed to clarify the principles and guidelines necessary to the setting-up of such a mechanism, in line with existing national laws and international standards such as the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, which inspired Moroccan legislation.

European and International experiences of setting-up NRMs were presented, as well as the lessons learned that could be useful for Morocco. The preparation of this referral mechanism, a key element in the guidance and effective protection of victims of human trafficking, will be further deepened in the framework of future activities specifically targeting its operationalisation.

The South Programme III (2018-2020) aims to ensure the sustainability of earlier results by contributing to reinforcing human rights, the rule of law and democracy in the Southern Mediterranean region in accordance with European and other international standards based on a demand-driven approach. The programme holds as its main focus the combating of all forms of violence against women. The programme has a budget of €3 334 000 funded 90% by the European Union and 10% by the Council of Europe as the organisation in charge of the implementation.

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Press release

South Programme III