EmpowerHER – Supporting and Empowering Migrant Women Survivors of Human Trafficking with the goal of escaping labor exploitation and achieving socioeconomic integration.
Human trafficking remains one of the most serious crimes against human dignity, with the number of recorded victims in the European Union rising dramatically in recent years — reaching 10,093 in 2022, an increase of 41% compared to 2021. Migrant women from third countries are disproportionately affected. Particularly in Italy, Spain, and Greece — key entry points for migratory flows — the challenges surrounding the protection, reception, and integration of victims are significant.
In Greece, according to the National Referral Mechanism, in 2024 there were 465 newly recorded cases of human trafficking. Of the 366 adult victims (there were also 99 minor boys and girls), 275 were women — 75% of the adult total. For the first time, labor exploitation was recorded as the most prevalent form of exploitation (214 cases), with the majority involving women (96 victims) working as domestic workers or caregivers.
Kinoniko EKAV’s Response through EmpowerHER
In response to this often invisible aspect of human-to-human exploitation and the urgent needs of survivors in Greece, Kinoniko EKAV is actively participating in the European project EmpowerHER.
What is EmpowerHER?
EmpowerHER is a two-year European project, funded by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF), aimed at supporting the socioeconomic integration of migrant women survivors of human trafficking in Italy, Greece, and Spain. Through a holistic, personalized program of specialized support, economic empowerment, and employment pathways, the project provides these women with the tools they need to rebuild their lives, while enhancing resilience and autonomy.
Who is EmpowerHER for?
The primary beneficiaries of the project are third-country national women who have been trafficked for exploitation purposes. Secondary stakeholders include institutions, social workers, local communities, and employers, all of whom play a crucial role in the reintegration process.
Women living alone and without support networks are more vulnerable to sexual and labor exploitation, often trapped in cycles of marginalization and economic dependency. EmpowerHER is designed to address these specific vulnerabilities by offering practical, targeted solutions to promote social and economic inclusion.
Kinoniko EKAV’s Roles in the Project
Thanks to its experience in supporting vulnerable populations, Kinoniko EKAV plays multiple roles within EmpowerHER:
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Mapping the phenomenon of trafficking in Greece, through interviews with relevant stakeholders and survivors.
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Researching the needs and profiles of survivors, identifying best practices in care, and evaluating the existing support infrastructure.
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Providing direct training to beneficiaries, including:
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Greek language courses
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Communication skills
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Basic civic education
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Mentorship and career guidance, supporting participants in navigating the job market, with the ultimate goal of employment.
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Training professionals, organizing workshops and awareness sessions for social workers and other experts involved in the project.
The 5 Project Partners
EmpowerHER is a collaboration among five European organizations with proven experience in supporting vulnerable groups, training, economic empowerment, and social inclusion:
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Project Ahead (Lead Partner – Italy)
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Consorzio Percorsi (Italy)
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Innovation Hive (Greece)
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Kinoniko EKAV (Greece)
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Fundación Sieneva (Spain)
How to Get Involved with EmpowerHER in Greece
If your organization supports populations at risk of exploitation, or if you would like to train your staff on issues related to human trafficking, contact us for more information about participating in EmpowerHER’s activities.
Phone: +30 210 7255 363 (ext. 115)
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.Regular updates will be shared on our website and social media.
Follow the Project on Social Media
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Facebook: With the support of the European Union.
This project is funded by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).
The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the AMIF. Neither the EU nor the AMIF can be held responsible for them.
This project is funded by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).
The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the AMIF. Neither the EU nor the AMIF can be held responsible for them.
