A HELP course on “Combating trafficking in human beings” was launched for a group of judges of Uzbekistan on 14 June 2024. This initiative, a collaborative effort between the School of Judges under the High Judicial Council of the Republic of Uzbekistan, aims to strengthen the judiciary's capacity to address and adjudicate cases of human trafficking.

The HELP course is designed to provide judges with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of combating trafficking in human beings. This includes modules on the legal framework, victim identification and their rights, the non-punishment principle, compensation, and other relevant issues.

The launch of the course is part of broader initiative to strengthen the rule of law and human rights in Uzbekistan, with the support of the Programme. The interactive format of the launch event encouraged active participation and exchange of experiences among judges and international experts, reflecting on case studies, fostering a collaborative approach to tackle this transnational crime.

With the support of the tutor’s guidance, the HELP course, translated in Uzbek language and adapted to the national legislation will be completed by the registered participants in the coming weeks. Upon successful completion, they will receive HELP certificates issued by the Council of Europe.

The activity was organised in the framework of the action "HELP in Central Asia", within the Central Asia Rule of Law Programme 2020-2024, a joint initiative co-funded by the European Union and the Council of Europe and implemented by the Council of Europe.