Human trafficking in Sweden
Human trafficking can occur both across borders and within Sweden. The Swedish response depends on cooperation between public authorities, municipalities, regions and civil society.
National coordination
The Swedish Gender Equality Agency is the national coordinator for work against prostitution and human trafficking. This is carried out through NSPM, the national coordination structure. Participants include regional coordinators, police, customs, prosecutors, migration authorities, the Tax Agency, the Work Environment Authority and the National Board of Health and Welfare.
National strategy 2026–2035
In 2026, the Swedish Government adopted a ten-year national strategy covering, among other areas, exploitation in prostitution and human trafficking. It emphasises prevention, detection, support and protection, law enforcement and knowledge-based measures.
Labour exploitation
Human trafficking is not limited to sexual exploitation. Severe labour exploitation can occur where workers depend heavily on an employer for wages, housing, transport or their ability to remain in the country. Swedish authorities also cooperate against work-related crime.
Children and young people
Social services have a central role in supporting and protecting children who are or may be exposed to trafficking or exploitation. Children can be exploited sexually, in labour, begging or criminal activity and may be recruited both offline and online.