Trafficking in Persons Data in the Economic Community of West African States Region

The Trafficking in Persons Data in the Economic Community of West African States Region: Standardizing and Leveraging Administrative Data for Evidence provides a comprehensive analysis of trafficking trends and patterns across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region. Developed in collaboration with the African Union, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), ECOWAS and IOM, this report marks a significant step towards standardizing trafficking in persons (TIP) administrative data to enhance regional and national responses to trafficking. The report highlights key findings, including the predominance of child victims, gendered patterns of exploitation and the diversification of trafficking types, such as forced labour, sexual exploitation and other emerging forms. It also examines the disruptive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on anti-trafficking efforts, including delays in case processing and challenges in victim identification. Through the use of the West Africa TIP questionnaire, aligned with the International Classification for Administrative Data on Trafficking in Persons, the report offers actionable insights and recommendations to improve data collection, reporting and coordination across ECOWAS member States. These efforts aim to strengthen evidence-based policymaking, enhance victim protection and ensure a more effective regional response to TIP. This report is an essential resource for policymakers, practitioners and stakeholders working to combat human trafficking in West Africa, providing a foundation for future data-driven interventions and regional cooperation.