U.S. Department of State 2001 Trafficking in Persons Report - Sweden

Sweden (Tier 2)

Sweden is a destination country for trafficked women from the Baltic states and Central and Eastern Europe, with a few cases from Cuba and Colombia, for purposes of sexual exploitation. Police officials estimate that approximately 200 to 500 women were trafficked into Sweden, primarily from neighboring countries, during 2000.

The Government of Sweden does not yet fully meet the minimum standards; however, the Government is making significant efforts to combat trafficking. The law does not prohibit specifically the act of trafficking, but there are a range of other relevant laws that are being used to prosecute traffickers. Under related laws, the penalty for trafficking is roughly commensurate with those for rape or sexual assault. The Government has successfully prosecuted seven trafficking cases since 1998. The sentences for the traffickers ranged from 1 to 6 years' imprisonment. Victims do not receive temporary residence, and most are deported immediately; however, they rarely are detained and never jailed. Local social service offices give emergency help to victims when needed. The Government funds NGO's that are combating violence against women through education and shelters. The Government also provides funding to NGO's and international organizations that combat trafficking worldwide. The Government is providing specialized anti-trafficking training to its peacekeepers in the Balkans.