In the specific context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Council of Europe issued a call for grants. The grants are intended for projects aimed at ensuring that victims of trafficking and those at risk of trafficking are involved in the measures undertaken for responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences.

Proposed projects should focus on addressing the following issues:

• Research on the impact of COVID-19 on the fight against trafficking in human beings and the protection of victims and persons at risk of becoming victims;

• Promoting and protecting the rights of victims of trafficking in human beings, including issues related to difficult access to the healthcare system, adequate accommodation and psychosocial services;

 • Providing information and support to facilitate reporting and self-identification, as well as access to justice and legal remedies.

• Raising awareness that is aimed at victims of trafficking or those at risk of trafficking, of the general public too. This could include initiatives aimed at combating trafficking in human beings through greater use of the Internet and other communication tools.

The deadline for submitting project proposals is September 11, 2020.

The minimum amount of funds is 10,000 EUR.

The maximum amount of funds is EUR 100,000.

Further information on the terms of the call is available on https://www.coe.int/en/web/anti-human-trafficking/news/-/asset_publisher/fX6ZWufj34JY/content/call-for-proposals-support-to-civil-society-organisations-initiatives-to-assist-and-protect-victims-of-trafficking-in-human-beings-during-the-covid-19?_101_INSTANCE_fX6ZWufj34JY_viewMode=view/

Source: Council of Europe and Coordination Body