Directive (EU) 2024/1712, which amends Directive 2011/36/EU on preventing and combating trafficking in human beings and protecting its victims, had to be transposed by 15 July 2026. The revision of the Anti-Trafficking Directive strengthens the criminalisation of trafficking in human beings and provides public authorities with stronger tools to investigate and prosecute new forms of exploitation, including those taking place online, while improving assistance and support to victims. Member States are now required to formalise a National Referral Mechanism and to appoint a focal point for the cross-border referral of victims. They must also designate National Anti-Trafficking Coordinators and adopt and regularly update National Anti-Trafficking Action Plans.

Belgium has notified 24 national measures to the European Commission in relation to the transposition of the Directive. The Commission nevertheless considers that the transposition notified by Belgium is not complete. Belgium and the other Member States concerned now have two months to respond to the Commission and communicate their complete transposition measures. If the responses are not satisfactory, the Commission may proceed to the next stage of the infringement procedure by issuing a reasoned opinion.

For further information, please consult EUR-Lex.