On 6 and 7 May, Frontex hosted a major international conference focused on some of the darkest crimes facing Europe, the trafficking and exploitation of children.
The event gathered more than 60 participants from 24 countries, including representatives from EU institutions, national authorities, international organisations, and civil society.
Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens opened the event with a clear message: “Child trafficking is not just a legal problem. It is a moral one. And we have a duty to act. At Frontex, we are training our officers to detect the signs, strengthening our response on the ground, and working with national and international partners to stop criminals before they reach their victims. This is not optional. It is our responsibility because every child we protect is a life saved from fear, violence, and exploitation.”
Hans Leijtens was joined by other leading voices, including Diane Schmitt, the EU’s Anti-Trafficking Coordinator, and Agata Furgała, Director at Poland’s Ministry of Interior, who addressed the event on behalf of the Polish Presidency.
The conference focused on practical solutions: how to detect, protect, and respond. Discussions covered early identification of child victims at borders, protection during migration, and ensuring that traffickers are held to account through robust justice systems. Attendees explored how to improve cooperation between national authorities, international bodies, and NGOs.
For Frontex, this conference reflects more than just concern. It reflects action. The Agency has ramped up its presence at key border points, trained officers to spot signs of exploitation, and is working closely with Member States to ensure children are protected, not overlooked.
As child trafficking networks grow more sophisticated, so must the response. This week’s event marks another step forward in a wider, ongoing commitment to protect children and bring perpetrators to justice.
