Labor exploitation affects vulnerable individuals who are coerced or deceived into exploitative work situations. Public authorities in North Macedonia and related actors in the field are committed to reduce the demand for services delivered by victims of human trafficking for the purpose of labour exploitation, as the Criminal Code in North Macedonia penalises the use of services delivered by human trafficking victims.

The public awareness raising initiative “Maybe you are also involved in labour exploitation”, implemented by the Business Confederation of North Macedonia with the support of the EU and Council of Europe, kicked-off on the European anti-trafficking day, 18 October. It contributes towards prevention and eradication of human trafficking for labour exploitation by emphasising a social dialogue, information dissemination, and consultation with workers, while promoting ethical labour practices and workers’ rights. 

To raise public awareness about the consequences of using services by trafficking victims exploited for labour purposes, the Business Confederation of North Macedonia produced a series of informational and promotional materials including a series of posters, four Guides on preventing labour exploitation targeting industries the most prone to labour exploitation, such as the agriculture, the civil construction, the tourism and hospitality. It also designed seven different posters and three leaflets addressed to the employers, employees and general public, which are widely disseminated via social media and at appropriate events. During the initiative, the Business Confederation delivered four workshops to employers, workers and representatives of the local communities. 

 The public awareness initiative “Maybe you are also involved in labour exploitation” implemented by the Business Confederation of North Macedonia, is supported by the Action “Strengthening anti - trafficking action in North Macedonia”. This Action is part of the joint European Union/Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye 2023 – 2026”.