This study is based upon the review of 45 cases of potential victims of child trafficking - 31 girls and 14 boys, collected with the valuable contribution of the Child Protection Workers in the municipalities of Tirana, Shkodër, Korcë, Bulqizë, Durrës, Elbasan, Kukës, Kamëz, Krujë, Kavajë, Lezhë. The data was collected by Child Protection Workers (CPWs) during the period 2016-2019. The selected period coincides with the OSCE Presence in Albania work to support Albanian institutions to address child trafficking through a child protection framework.
The study recommends greater strengthening of child protection systems through increased training for key stakeholders, including law enforcement, child protection workers and schools. There is also a need for improved and coordinated data gathering and reporting systems, and more effective coordination of child protection actors to ensure follow up investigations and robust child protection in line with extant law and policy.
Finally, there is a need for increased provision of specialized care for children who have been traumatised as a result of trafficking, including specialized services for child addiction.
