The ministry reminds: it is very important to recognize the crime and seek help
Press release in Russian and Ukrainian languages (UA, RU).
The Ministry of Social Security and Labour reminds the Lithuanian population and Ukrainians who have come to the country how to recognize trafficking in human beings, where people who were victims of crime have to seek help.
Our country has a new system of assistance to victims of crime and a network of emergency services. There are currently 26 accredited emergency services in the country. In total, more than 5,000 different services have been provided to victims over the past year. This year, EUR 500,000 of state budget funds have been allocated for accredited assistance.
What assistance is provided?
Upon receipt of the victim's data from the first contact authority or from the person who contacted the helpdesk directly, the helpdesk shall organize and provide assistance according to the individual needs of victims and the needs arising from the crime committed.
Firstly, information shall be provided on the rights of victims and the authorities that can guarantee them. The emergency services staff shall assess the needs of victims arising from the crime, draw up a plan of assistance measures with the victims and organize the provision of assistance. The helpdesk shall provide or organize emotional and psychological assistance, provide temporary accommodation if necessary, inform about social service institutions and organizations, services provided by health care institutions and other assistance.
Who can apply and get help?
Comprehensive assistance provided by emergency services is available to victims of any crime, as well as to family members and close relatives of those who have died as a result of the crime. At the request of victims, other persons may also apply to the assistance service for the victims.
Assistance shall be provided whether or not the victim has lodged a complaint, statement or report with the competent state or municipal authority concerning the criminal offense. Assistance is also provided free of charge.
People can turn to any emergency service in the country, not necessarily in their place of residence. Helpdesks can also organize assistance remotely.
How do I find a helpdesk?
Information on helpdesks and the assistance they provide will be provided by the first contact authorities if the person first contacts them: the pre-trial investigation office, the prosecutor's office or the court, the general assistance centre (phone 112), the municipal administration, the social services, any education or health care institution, the state child rights protection and adoption service.
What is considered human trafficking?
The concept of trafficking in human beings includes sexual exploitation, slave (forced) labour, exploitation for criminal purposes, organ trafficking, forced (forced fictitious) marriages, begging, child pornography, exploitation of women for surrogacy, trafficking in children and young children for adoption purposes, exploitation of children in the army, etc.