Turkey Faces Ongoing Human Trafficking Challenges Amid Efforts to Strengthen Response

Turkey continues to confront significant challenges in combating human trafficking, according to recent reports from international monitoring bodies and official government sources.

The 2025 U.S. Trafficking in Persons Report highlights that Turkish authorities investigated 93 human trafficking cases in 2024, including 45 involving sex trafficking and numerous others linked to forced labour and exploitation. These investigations reflect ongoing efforts to detect and prosecute traffickers operating both within and across Turkey’s borders.

Despite these efforts, Turkey does not fully meet the minimum international standards for eliminating human trafficking, though it has taken steps to strengthen legal frameworks and institutional mechanisms. The country’s strategic location — bridging Europe, Asia and the Middle East — makes it a destination, transit and origin point for trafficked individuals.

According to the Council of Europe’s GRETA report, sexual exploitation remains the primary form of trafficking identified in Turkey, accounting for 52 % of cases, followed by labour exploitation (30 %), forced marriage (9 %) and forced begging (6 %). Victims originate from various countries, including Syria, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Turkey itself, underscoring the regional complexities of trafficking flows.

Turkey has also undertaken public awareness and prevention initiatives. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the government launched a national multimedia information campaign aimed at informing the public about trafficking risks and how to report suspected cases. Such campaigns are part of broader efforts to improve victim identification, protection and community involvement in anti-trafficking efforts.

The Turkish government has established legal tools to combat trafficking. Under the Turkish Criminal Code, human trafficking — including forced prostitution and transport of persons for exploitation — is punishable by significant prison terms. Additionally, policy bodies such as the National Task Force on Fight Against Human Trafficking work with civil society to formulate strategies, coordinate enforcement actions and assist victims.

Educational and reflection-period protections are available for foreign trafficking victims, allowing them a residence permit for recovery and cooperation with authorities. These measures aim to safeguard victims’ rights while facilitating law enforcement efforts.

Civil society advocates note that migrant populations and refugees — particularly from conflict zones such as Syria — remain highly vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation in Turkey. Anti-trafficking groups emphasize the need for improved outreach, stronger social services and better enforcement of existing laws to protect these populations.

While Turkey has taken steps toward aligning with international anti-trafficking norms, observers stress that continued reform and implementation are required to address persistent gaps in victim assistance and prosecution effectiveness. International cooperation remains crucial, with Turkey engaging in cross-border efforts alongside European and global partners to dismantle trafficking networks and support survivors.