The representative of Caritas Ukraine and RENATE Natalia Holynska took part in the
Regional Expert Group Meeting (REGM) in Bucharest, Romania, on 23-24 April 2025. The subject
of the conference was “Impact of the War in Ukraine on Human Trafficking in South-Eastern
Europe, with Focus on Illegal Adoption and Surrogacy Exploitation”. It was held by the United
Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in collaboration with the National Agency Against
Trafficking in Persons (ANITP) within the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Romana and the Ministry
of Europe and Foreign Affairs of France.

Ms. Nataliya Holynska, Project Manager of Caritas, Ukraine, introduced her intervention by
presentation of a short semi-documentary film “Fragile Life”, depicting real cases of human
trafficking during wartime, including the trafficking of a boy for forced adoption
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a89EDAtNEYs. Ms Holynska then proceeded with a set of
recommendations for improving responses to human trafficking.

In conclusion, she highlighted the need to address emerging challenges of the 21st century, such as
artificial intelligence, armed conflicts, climate changes, and migration crises, by suggesting
potential amendments to the Palermo Protocol to better reflect contemporary trafficking realities. 
At the end of her presentation, she thanked participants for their attention and expressed
hope that these proposals would contribute to strengthening anti-trafficking efforts globally.

First, she called for the improvement of the international referral mechanism, urging that it should
encompass non-EU countries, particularly Ukraine. 

‎Second, Ms. Holynska proposed conducting new research studies, noting that while previous
UNODC research was valuable, updated studies focusing on Ukraine and neighbouring countries
such as Romania, Moldova, and Poland are urgently needed, especially concerning surrogacy-
related risks and consequences.

Further she recommended launching public awareness campaigns to sensitize communities about
the dangers of surrogacy, particularly in light of the new EU Directive.

Ms. Holynska stressed the importance of enhancing proactive screening and identification of
trafficking victims, not only for sexual exploitation but also for labor exploitation, domestic
servitude, criminal activities, and mixed forms of exploitation, which are currently prevalent in
Ukraine. 

With gratitude from the RENATE Network

This week, we mourn the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, a shepherd who stood boldly for justice, peace, and the dignity of every person. While our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in reflecting on the moments we shared with him as a network.

One such treasured memory was the audience RENATE members were privileged to have with Pope Francis during our Second European Assembly in Rome, held from 6–12 November 2016. On 7th November, the Holy Father welcomed us at the Vatican with warmth and humility. Each person had the rare opportunity to greet him personally — an unforgettable honour.

As a token of our shared mission, Sr. Patricia Mulhall, CSB, presented Pope Francis with a handwoven St. Brigid’s Cross from the Brigidine Community in Kildare, Ireland. Alongside Sr. Viktorija Šimić, SCSC, they shared a prayer composed during the weaving of the Cross — carrying our hopes, dreams, and steadfast commitment to end human trafficking.

We invite you to revisit the Pope’s full address to RENATE here:
👉 Greeting of His Holiness Pope Francis to the Second European Assembly of RENATE

You may also enjoy looking back at the group photo with Pope Francis, a moment of joy and unity that continues to bless us.

For more stories and photos from this special time, visit our News archive from November 2016, and feel free to browse your own photo collections to remember the joy we shared in Rome.

We give thanks for the life, vision, and unwavering compassion of Pope Francis. May he rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to light our path.

In prayer,
The RENATE Core Group

As the world blossoms into spring, so too does the energy and activity across the RENATE network. We are pleased to share with you our Spring 2025 Newsletter — a rich and vibrant edition that captures the dedication, compassion, and courage of RENATE members over the past quarter.

This newsletter offers a powerful window into the work being done across Europe and beyond to uphold dignity, protect the vulnerable, and build a world free from human trafficking.

Inside this edition, you’ll find:

Highlights from the RENATE Working Board Meeting
Our recent gathering brought together members from across the network to reflect, strategise, and deepen our shared commitment. The meeting served as a space of vision, encouragement and renewed purpose.

Updates on the Situation in Ukraine
This issue includes important insights into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the risks it poses for human trafficking. RENATE members on the ground continue to respond with courage and compassion to support those most affected.

Interviews with RENATE Members
Meet some of the people behind the work, like Sr. Margaret Gonzi working in Malta. Her interview shines a light on the stories, motivations and daily efforts of those tirelessly engaged in anti-trafficking initiatives across the continent.

Reflections on the International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking – St. Bakhita Day, February 8th
Across the network, RENATE members marked this significant day through events, liturgies, and public awareness campaigns. This edition captures how our collective voice was raised in prayer, solidarity and action.

We invite you to read the newsletter, share it widely among your communities, and tell us what you think! Together, we move forward — grounded in hope, united in purpose, and inspired by the power of our shared mission.

[Read the Spring 2025 Newsletter here.]

Shared by RENATE member Sabine Kallauch, the following reflection offers a powerful glimpse into the frontline work of KAVOD, a dedicated outreach initiative bringing dignity, care, and presence to women in brothels across Styria:

“Yes, we are all human beings—and it was precisely this shared humanity that we were able to experience once again during our intensive missions in Styria. We hugged many women in the brothels and were able to bring a smile to many faces. These encounters take place in environments marked by deep inhumanity, where people are used like objects and their dignity is routinely trampled.”

The work of KAVOD is only possible thanks to their committed team of volunteers, some of whom have been walking alongside the mission for many years. Their consistency and compassion are a vital part of what makes these moments of connection possible.

Sabine and Andreas will be travelling once more to Ukraine at the end of April, continuing their vital work in another challenging context. They are grateful for any financial support—donations are tax-deductible in both Germany and Austria.

We invite you to explore the KAVOD Annual Report 2024, which offers a deeper look into their work, impact, and mission.

On 5th March 2025, the Policy Evidence Centre (PEC) hosted a significant conference on modern slavery, marking the 10th anniversary of the Modern Slavery Act (March 24, 2015). The event, attended by leading experts, policymakers, and survivors, aimed to reflect on progress, address ongoing challenges, and propose future strategies to combat modern slavery. Among the attendees was Sr. Imelda Poole (IBVM), who represented RENATE and highlighted the organization’s commitment to fighting human trafficking and exploitation.

Conference Objectives
The primary focus of the conference was to foster collaboration and generate new momentum in the fight against modern slavery. Despite legislative advancements, the crime has quadrupled over the past decade, with a staggering 44% increase in child trafficking. Yet, prosecutions remain disappointingly low, raising concerns that current approaches are failing. The UK government has also made substantial cuts to foreign aid and is pushing to withdraw from European human rights laws, despite its commitment to international human rights and anti-slavery efforts.

Key Discussions

• Policy and Legislative Challenges
  The Modern Slavery Act, now a decade old, is widely regarded as outdated and in need of urgent revision. Survivors often find themselves unprotected by the law, particularly when they are migrants. There is an urgent need for a victim-centered human rights approach. Industry accountability remains weak, with businesses often escaping scrutiny under the toothless Clause 54 of the Act. The Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner emphasized the need for a strategic vision to drive policy reforms and ensure measurable, enforceable implementation.
• The Role of Survivors in Policy and Advocacy
  Jane Hasonder, Chair of Hope for Justice and a survivor herself, emphasized the necessity of survivor dignity and employment in anti-slavery initiatives. Survivors must be seen as more than just ‘walking stories on legs’—they should be remunerated and given positions where they can shape policy and strategy. The conference also explored structured career pathways for survivors, advocating for systemic change rather than temporary advisory roles. Ethical survivor engagement must prioritize trust, safety, empowerment, and systemic justice.
• Business Responsibility and Supply Chains
  Businesses must take an active role in preventing forced labor and modern slavery in supply chains.
  EU legislation on supply chain responsibility has been delayed, with Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act serving only as a reporting requirement rather than an enforcement mechanism.
  There is a pressing need for stronger due diligence requirements and greater transparency.
• Government Action and Future Steps
  Jess Philips, representing the UK Home Office, acknowledged past leadership in anti-slavery efforts but stressed the need for modernized, concrete reforms. The government’s proposed Modern Slavery Reform Plan will focus on:
  Strengthening prevention measures, particularly in corporate supply chains.
  Reducing the backlog of victims awaiting care and reforming the identification process.
  Enhancing victim support, with tailored care for children and adults.
  Improving criminal justice outcomes by increasing prosecutions and holding perpetrators accountable.
• The Survivor Panel: Lived Experience in Policy Making
  The panel featured survivors who have become advocates and professionals working against modern slavery. Key takeaways included: Survivors should not be commodified for their stories but instead empowered to contribute meaningfully to systemic change. Trauma-informed training must be a priority in survivor engagement. Long-term structural and career opportunities must be developed to support survivors beyond advisory roles.
  
  
  Final Remarks and Call to Action
  Eleanor Lyons, the current Anti-Slavery Commissioner, stressed the importance of reclaiming leadership in the fight against modern slavery. She called for a cross-departmental strategy informed by survivors, with law enforcement and the commercial sector taking an active role.
  To move forward effectively, the UK must:
  Establish a Survivor Advisory Council.
  Develop and implement a cross-government strategy.
  Work closely with research institutions like the Rights Lab at Nottingham University.
  Focus on prevention, prosecution, and protection as core pillars.
  
  
  Read more here.
  
  The conference underscored the urgent need for reform, survivor inclusion, and stronger legal mechanisms to combat modern slavery. Sr. Imelda Poole’s presence reaffirmed RENATE’s dedication to advocating for these critical changes and ensuring that the voices of survivors are central to policy development. Moving forward, a collaborative, survivor-informed, and enforceable approach will be essential in making meaningful progress against modern slavery.

Following our participation this evening at CSW69, RENATE is proud to officially launch our Shelters and Safe Houses Booklet, a comprehensive resource highlighting the vital work being carried out across our network. This booklet provides an in-depth look at the nine active shelters and safe houses that are part of the RENATE network, offering a glimpse into the transformative and life-saving support being provided to those in need.

This launch follows the in-person unveiling at the 2024 RENATE Working Board Meeting in Athens, Greece, where members gathered online and in-person to discuss and celebrate the extraordinary efforts of our shelters and safe houses. Now, we are delighted to share this invaluable resource with our wider network and beyond.

Through these pages, you will witness the dedication, resilience, and compassion that define RENATE’s mission in providing safe spaces for survivors of human trafficking and exploitation. Each shelter and safe house plays a crucial role in offering protection, healing, and empowerment, helping individuals reclaim their dignity and rebuild their lives.

We warmly invite you to explore the booklet, share it widely, and help us amplify the impact of this work. If you feel moved by the stories and efforts detailed within, we encourage you to make a donation—100% of which will go directly to supporting the RENATE shelters and safe houses. More details on how to contribute can be found at the end of the booklet.

We are thrilled to launch this initiative and look forward to hearing your thoughts. Thank you for your continued support in our collective mission to bring hope and safety to those who need it most.

According to the National Bank of Ukraine, approximately 200,000 more Ukrainians are expected to migrate abroad this year. Last year, this figure was 500,000. The same report predicts that in 2026, 200,000 migrants will begin returning to Ukraine, with half a million expected to return in 2027.

However, social surveys indicate a growing number of Ukrainian migrants intend to remain abroad even after the war. As a result, a large-scale and rapid return of Ukrainian migrants is not anticipated.

Ongoing migration from Ukraine is primarily driven by high security risks, constant shelling, destruction, and a decline in living conditions. Over the past three years of full-scale war, there has also been a significant outflow of 17-year-old boys seeking safety abroad.

The Risks Facing Young Ukrainian Boys Abroad

Due to martial law, Ukrainian men over the age of 18 are prohibited from leaving the country. As a result, many parents are sending their underage sons abroad before they reach adulthood. Parents of 15- and 16-year-old boys are increasingly searching for schools, colleges, or universities in other countries, with Poland and Slovakia being the most common choices. If the boys speak German, Austria and Germany are also popular destinations due to better living conditions and strong social protection systems.

However, these young boys face significant risks as they find themselves alone in foreign countries, often without parental supervision. Parents may not always be able to check if their child is attending school, what kind of environment they are in, or what influences they are exposed to.

For university students, dormitories provide housing. Younger students typically live in rented accommodations, sometimes with relatives. In response to this growing trend, travel agencies now offer services to help minors relocate. In many cases, a mother accompanies her son abroad before returning to Ukraine, leaving him to navigate life alone.

Reports from Caritas organizations in Romania and the Czech Republic, which assist Ukrainian refugees, confirm a rise in unaccompanied boys aged 16-17 arriving in groups. After obtaining temporary protection status, many of these boys disappear. Their whereabouts and activities remain unknown. Some may have been promised jobs, particularly in the Czech Republic, where education is no longer mandatory at 16. Without knowledge of the local language or legal system, these young migrants are highly vulnerable to exploitation. A deeper investigation into this issue is urgently needed.

A Growing Trend: Young Girls Following Boys Abroad

It is likely that young Ukrainian girls will also begin following their male peers abroad. Many young people feel uncertain about their future, even after the war ends. There is no guarantee of stability or economic opportunity, leading to a broader trend of youth migration. This situation presents significant challenges for Ukraine’s future.

The Situation with Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children

At the start of the full-scale invasion, all orphanages in Ukraine were evacuated. More than 4,000 Ukrainian orphans were relocated to EU countries, but only half have been returned to Ukraine. Meanwhile, many children remain in Russian-occupied territories, with a large number forcibly deported to Russia. Repatriating these children remains extremely difficult.

Countries such as Italy and Switzerland, where child safety is prioritized over international agreements, have refused to return children to Ukraine while active hostilities continue. They have taken responsibility for the children currently on their territory.

In Switzerland, there was an incident in which Ukrainian state guardians mistreated evacuated orphans, leading authorities to remove the children from their care.

Caritas Poland is currently assisting 35 orphans evacuated from Ukraine, providing them with social and psychological support, as well as Polish language and integration courses. However, there is a growing need to improve communication and offer additional support to the guardians of these orphans.

Author

Iryna Maievska
Head of the Safe Migration and Counter-Trafficking Program
Caritas Ukraine

Caritas Ukraine

This update is provided by Natalia Holynska, RENATE Working Board Member for Ukraine.

This morning, 23 RENATE representatives, including Co-President’s Ivonne van de Kar (Netherlands) and Sr. Marie Power (UK) gathered together to begin our Annual Working Board Meeting. Opening with prayer organised by our House of Prayer Task Group, the attention and intention of our Meeting Group has been set for a deeply positive and transformative week ahead for RENATE.

(L-R, Dr. Mary McHugh (Facilitator), along with RENATE Co-President’s Sr Marie Power (HFB, and Ivonne van de Kar (Netherlands), open and welcome RENATE Members and guest speakers to Athens.

Our panelists take the floor to start this morning’s discussion!.

Date: March 20, 2025
Time: 17:30 – 19:30 (GMT)

As part of the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), RENATE will present key insights into human trafficking and exploitation, shedding light on critical issues and innovative responses across Europe. We invite all RENATE members, friends and colleagues to join us as we present on the following aspects of our work:

Key Highlights

• Film as a Means of Communication
  The session will feature screenings of three short films that explore the realities of human trafficking in Albania, Ireland & the UK, and Ukraine. These films serve as powerful tools for raising awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of the issue.
• Legal Insights
  RENATE will share findings from its research on the urgent need for specialized training on human trafficking for legal professionals. Addressing gaps in legal expertise is essential for ensuring justice and protection for survivors.
• Shelters & Survivor Empowerment
  The event will mark the launch of RENATE’s latest publication on shelter provision and support services across its member countries. This initiative aims to strengthen survivor support systems and advocate for best practices in care and rehabilitation.

This session will provide a valuable platform for knowledge-sharing, advocacy, and collaboration in the fight against human trafficking.

To register, click here.

Join us in advancing justice, protection, and empowerment for survivors worldwide.

On St. Bakhita Day, Friday, February 8th, the outreach team in Prague carried out a regular visit to local nightclubs, reaching out to those in need of comfort and hope. That evening, two establishments were visited, and gifts were distributed—beautifully crafted bags featuring original handmade angel decorations, along with a Bible verse. As always, informational leaflets with essential contact details and support resources were also provided.

At the first club, the visit was brief, with conversations taking place with the women, followed by a short prayer. However, in the second venue, an opportunity arose to organize a meaningful communal prayer. Holding hands, prayers were offered for families, personal struggles, and above all, for healing and deliverance from anything that may be binding them. The women expressed deep gratitude for this moment of connection and faith. The outreach team also left feeling thankful, recognizing the blessing of having an uninterrupted space to share this prayer.

Strengthening Prevention Efforts.

As part of ongoing prevention programs, Sr. Klara Marie was honored to be invited to give a four-hour lecture to foster families in late January as part of their training course (Cestou Necestou; Training Program).

The importance of speaking directly to parents of children from vulnerable social backgrounds, as well as to girls from diagnostic institutions, remains vital. These young individuals are among those most at risk of exploitation and human trafficking. Raising awareness and providing education in these settings is crucial in preventing future harm and ensuring these children and young women receive the protection and support they need.

On this St. Bakhita Day, trust is placed in her intercession, with prayers that all those in need—women and girls alike—may live lives of dignity, free from fear and oppression.

With prayers and gratitude,
Sr. Klara Marie