In the Valencian Community, authorities announced that twelve victims linked to networks involved in trafficking and sexual exploitation were identified in 2021, according to the latest figures released by the Interior Ministry this week.
To mark the International Day Against Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking of Women, Girls and Boys, which is observed next Friday, the Government delegate for the Community of Valencia, Pilar Bernabé, examined the data and stated that the Spanish Government implemented highly appropriate measures last year to confront this modern form of slavery.
Bernabé cited the National Strategic Plan Against Trafficking and Exploitation in Human Beings 2021-2023 as a cornerstone of the approach focused on victim protection. She emphasized that the objective extends beyond merely fighting crime to ensuring real safeguards for those subjected to grave human rights abuses.
She also referenced the Camino Plan, approved earlier this week by the Cabinet, which aims to offer alternatives and secure the rights of victims.
In addition, the representative highlighted Royal Decree Law No. 6/2022, enacted to address the economic and social consequences of the war in Ukraine. Given the risk of trafficking for sexual exploitation among displaced women, girls, and boys, the Government established protection mechanisms such as administrative acknowledgment of victim status, ensuring proper support and recognition for those affected.
On preventive efforts related to human trafficking and sexual exploitation, last year the State Security Forces and Bodies conducted 158 inspections of premises offering prostitution within the Valencian Community. This figure rises in comparison with 2020 and has returned to pre-pandemic levels after the disruptions caused by health measures.
Within these inspections, a total of 31 individuals were detained in the Valencian Community, including 24 for crimes related to sexual trafficking and 7 for sexual exploitation. These actions reflect ongoing vigilance and a coordinated approach to disrupt criminal networks while safeguarding potential victims.
The Government Delegation in the Community of Valencia organized a professional training session this Wednesday to strengthen the support offered to victims of trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation. The event opened at Valencia Port from 09:00 to 13:00 and involved participation by the Minister of Justice, Gabriela Bravo, alongside representatives from the Red Cross, the Association for the Prevention, Reintegration and Care of Prostitutes (APRAM), the Civil Guard, and the Valencia Institute’s gender-based violence prevention service. The session aimed to equip frontline professionals with the knowledge and resources needed to respond effectively and empathetically to those affected.
A roundtable was also staged the following day to discuss progress and ongoing challenges in countering the sexual exploitation and trafficking of women and children. The sub-delegate of the Government, Villager from Arace; Modes Salazar, head of the Unit Against Violence Against Women; attorney María del Valle Galant; Civil Guard Lieutenant Javier Balsalobre; National Police Superintendent José Luis Tinoco; and Agustina Canales, director of the New Beginnings shelter, participated, sharing insights and practical recommendations drawn from field work and case reviews.