Kosovo remains at Level 2 in the US State Department’s report on human trafficking, despite increased funding for victim assistance and increased penalties for traffickers. The report for the year 2025 highlights shortcomings in the implementation of the law, the identification of children forced to beg and the provision of long-term services for victims.
According to the report of the American Department of State (DASH), the Government of Kosovo does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of human trafficking, although it has made significant efforts to improve the situation. The increase in the number of convicted traffickers, the increase in funding for assistance to victims and the increase in funds for preventive activities are mentioned as positive developments. However, these efforts have not been accompanied by sufficient results in all areas.
During 2025, Kosovo Police investigated four cases of human trafficking, compared to five cases in 2024. Authorities filed indictments against 34 suspects, up from 49 the year before. Courts convicted three people for trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation, compared to one convicted in 2024. However, only two of them received effective prison sentences, namely five years and six months in prison and a fine of 3,000 euros, as well as three years in prison. The third person was sentenced to one year of probation.
DASH warns that sentences below the minimum provided by law weaken efforts to hold traffickers accountable and may endanger the safety of victims. The report also highlights the lack of sufficient training and experience of some prosecutors and judges in dealing with cases involving psychological coercion and emotional control of victims. Another concern is the identification of children forced to beg. Some cases continue to be treated as parental neglect or abuse, rather than human trafficking, according to the report. This can lead to children not being identified as victims and punished for actions taken as a direct result of exploitation.
During 2025, the institutions identified 13 victims of trafficking, from 14 in the previous year. All identified victims were sexually exploited: two were women and 11 were girls. Neither was a foreign national. The report estimates that the institutions, in cooperation with civil society organizations, have provided housing, health care, counseling, legal services and assistance for repatriation. According to the data of the report, 18 victims received help through this cooperation, while specialized housing institutions assisted 10 victims.
However, long-term support and reintegration remain challenges. The report states that reintegration programs have had limited success due to a lack of resources and employment opportunities that would enable victims to achieve financial independence. Even the Centers for Social Work face a lack of staff and capacities to fulfill all responsibilities towards child victims. Difficulties have also been identified in the treatment of re-trafficked victims and persons who need continuous psychosocial support and specialized services.
In the field of prevention, the Government of Kosovo allocated 15,000 euros during 2025, compared to 3,550 euros in 2024. Institutions developed awareness activities, kept the anti-trafficking hotline in operation and continued inspections at workplaces.
