The HEROES (Novel Strategies to FigHt Child Sexual Exploitation and Human TRafficking Crimes and PrOtect thEir VictimS) project is a global initiative, funded by the European Commission, that addresses the widespread issues of child sexual abuse and exploitation, and human trafficking. HEROES started in December 2021 and will end in November 2024. Its objective is to create technological, methodological and strategic solutions that help prevent, detect and prosecute these crimes, and offer support and protection to victims.
The number of people, including children, falling victim to human trafficking and child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSA/CSE) around the world continues to grow, despite increased international attention and resources. In Europe, sexually exploited women and girls make up the majority of human trafficking victims. Moreover, assistance to victims is often limited by the lack of coordination among stakeholders. In this context, the EU-funded HEROES project will explore how to use the latest technological advances and new strategies to prevent and combat CSA/CSE and human trafficking, investigate the crimes and better protect victims. It will develop an ambitious, interdisciplinary, international and victim-centred approach. Its aim is to establish a coordinated contribution with law enforcement agencies to address the specific needs of victims and provide protection.
To achieve its main goal, the HEROES project’s strategies and solutions, focus on three fundamental pillars to fight against THB and CSA/CSE crimes: Prevention, Investigation and Victim Assistance.
The project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101021801