Human smuggling from Vietnam to Europe has become a pressing issue, with traffickers exploiting vulnerable individuals seeking better opportunities.
Despite crackdowns, victims often remain silent, complicating efforts to combat the crime.
The problem gained global attention in 2019 when 39 Vietnamese nationals were found suffocated in a truck in the UK, many believed to have been trafficked for forced labor. Since then, the EU, Europol, and Interpol have intensified efforts to address the issue. Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) launched a research project to analyze trafficking networks, revealing that men are primarily exploited for labor, while women face a higher risk of sexual exploitation.
Victims rarely report their experiences, often due to social and family pressures. Many see migration, even through illegal means, as a path to financial success, borrowing substantial sums—up to €23,000—to pay smugglers. Social media plays a role in perpetuating this perception, showcasing wealth and success stories while obscuring the harsh realities.
Efforts to combat trafficking include international cooperation, public awareness campaigns, and promoting legal migration pathways. Recent agreements between Germany and Vietnam aim to boost skilled immigration, addressing labor shortages while reducing illegal routes.
