The “527” number routes all calls from mobile phones to a free IOM service providing information on the current realities and dangers facing Ukrainian migrants abroad, including human trafficking and the consequences of irregular entry and stay in foreign countries. Since its inception last year, 15,439 calls have been made to the “527” short number and 126 callers have been identified as victims of trafficking by hotline administrators at the Ternopil-based National Call Centre.

Trafficking in human beings has become a serious modern migration and human rights challenge demanding a resolute, comprehensive, and coherent response from governments, the private sector, civil society and the international community at large. An estimated 100,000 Ukrainians have been sold into slavery since 1991.

National Hotline Coordinator Maryna Pasichnyk enumerated the virtues of the hotline and underscored the breadth of information provided by specialists manning the phones, “ ’527’ is an instrument offering a wide range of people the chance to inform themselves on issues of illegal and legal migration, as well as measures to stay safe when abroad and protect themselves from the dangers of trafficking in human beings. Additionally, the hotline has enabled us to identify and subsequently render reintegration assistance to victims of trafficking.”

IOM Chief of Mission in Ukraine Mr. Jeffrey Labovitz noted the profound importance of the precedent set by IOM private sector partners life:), Kyivstar, and MTS, “Sworn competitors joined together for the first time in an exemplary display of corporate social responsibility to address timely problems perniciously affecting Ukrainian society. The overwhelming success of this initiative should spur other Ukrainian companies to follow suit and work further to help ensure the safety of Ukrainian citizens and reinforce ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking in Ukraine.”

Since 2001, IOM in Ukraine has provided assistance to almost 5000 victims of trafficking, including medical care, psychological counseling, reintegration grants, vocational training, legal assistance with civil issues, legal consultation and representation for victims serving as witnesses in criminal cases, etc.

To receive more detailed information about the initiative, please contact the IOM Mission in Ukraine Public Information Office at +380 44 568 50 15 or pr@iom.kiev.ua.