After five years: Israel returns to highest ranking in fight against human trafficking

The U.S. State Department has elevated Israel to the highest ranking (Tier 1) in the fight against human trafficking, after five years in the second tier. The change follows enforcement measures, including the establishment of dedicated trafficking units, expansion of the trafficking squad at police headquarters, closure of brothels, and increased enforcement of the law prohibiting the consumption of prostitution. Police attribute the progress to actions taken since Commissioner Danny Levy took office.

The U.S. State Department has elevated Israel to the highest ranking (Tier 1) in the fight against human trafficking, after five years in which it was ranked in the second tier. The change comes against the backdrop of enforcement measures taken in recent years, with an emphasis on protecting vulnerable populations. The Israel Police attribute importance to actions taken since Commissioner Danny Levy took office about two years ago. As part of the measures, two dedicated trafficking units were established to handle trafficking offenses related to prostitution, and the trafficking squad at police headquarters was expanded. Districts conducted complex investigations against criminal networks, some of which led to indictments and arrests. Field enforcement was expanded, including the closure of brothels and an increase in the number of reports under the law prohibiting the consumption of prostitution. Unit 105 increased activity against the exploitation of minors online. Cooperation between the police and government agencies was expanded, including identifying victims at Ben Gurion Airport and preventing the entry of involved parties. The police view the upgrade in ranking as recognition of their efforts.