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Berlin's New Hub Protects Child Victims of Trafficking in First Year

A lifeline for exploited minors: Berlin's groundbreaking center fights trafficking with direct support and systemic change. Why its first year marks a turning point.

The image shows a poster with text and images that reads "Child Labor is a National Menace - Shall...
The image shows a poster with text and images that reads "Child Labor is a National Menace - Shall We Let Industry Shackle the Nation". The poster features a group of people of different ages, genders, and ethnicities, all standing together in solidarity. The text is written in bold, black font against a white background, emphasizing the importance of the message.

Berlin's New Hub Protects Child Victims of Trafficking in First Year

Germany's first specialised counselling centre for child victims of human trafficking has supported over 50 cases in its first year. Opened in spring 2024, the facility provides help to minors facing exploitation, including sexual abuse, forced labour, and criminal manipulation. Senator Katharina Günther-Wünsch has described its work as a key responsibility of the state.

The centre was established by Berlin's Senate Department for Education, Youth and Family. It assists children and young people of all genders, regardless of their migration or refugee background. Support is offered to those affected by sexual exploitation, begging, forced marriage, and other forms of trafficking.

Beyond direct aid, the facility also trains professionals working with at-risk minors. The goal is to strengthen prevention and ensure vulnerable young people do not slip through gaps in the system. Senator Günther-Wünsch emphasised that safeguarding children from exploitation remains a top priority.

While the centre has handled more than 50 cases since opening, detailed statistics on the types of exploitation recorded have not yet been released.

The counselling centre continues to operate as a dedicated resource for trafficked minors in Germany. Its work includes both immediate support for victims and broader efforts to improve child protection measures. The initiative reflects ongoing government efforts to combat human trafficking and exploitation.

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