Action plan against trafficking in human beings: Spanish-French analysis

Author: Lannier, Salomé

Abstract: Countries define action plans to determine their priorities on the fight against human trafficking. Spain published its first comprehensive plan earlier this year. The French second plan was finalized last year, and is awaiting for national evaluation. This article proposes to analyze the new Spanish anti-trafficking action plan in the light of the equivalent French plan, emphasizing both its content and the methodology used. The comparison of the two plans highlights their political character, their lack of scientific rigor, an evolution of priorities compared to the global anti-trafficking strategy, and a moderate extension to a comprehensive approach. Similar priorities are found in the two plans, such as the implementation of a National Referral Mechanism. However, innovative measures are limited in their implementation. On the contrary, reminders are multiplied, more texts are proposed to be drafted, and awareness-raising is insisted upon as the first priority.

Keywords: human trafficking, action plan, comprehensive law, National Referral Mechanism