World Day Against Trafficking in Persons: Supporting Recovery and Reintegration Through Sport

Every year on 30 July, the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons draws attention to one of the most serious violations of human rights worldwide. Trafficking in human beings affects people of all ages and backgrounds, exposing them to exploitation, violence and abuse while depriving them of their freedom, dignity and fundamental rights.

Addressing trafficking requires coordinated action across prevention, protection, prosecution and partnership. However, support cannot end when a person leaves an exploitative situation. Recovery and reintegration are often long and complex processes, shaped by each survivor’s experiences, needs and circumstances. Access to safe environments, trusted relationships and meaningful opportunities for participation is therefore essential.

The role of sport in recovery and empowerment

Sport can make an important contribution to the recovery and social inclusion of survivors and other vulnerable individuals. When delivered through safe, inclusive and trauma-informed approaches, sporting activities can support physical and mental well-being, strengthen self-confidence and help participants regain a sense of control over their lives.

Sport can also create opportunities for positive social interaction, teamwork and mutual support. Regular participation can provide structure and stability, reduce social isolation and foster a renewed sense of belonging. These benefits, however, depend on the ability of sports organisations and professionals to recognise vulnerabilities, respond appropriately to individual needs and create environments based on safety, dignity and respect.

How RECOVER contributes

The RECOVER project recognises the potential of sport as a complementary pathway towards recovery, empowerment and reintegration for victims and survivors of trafficking.

RECOVER equips professionals with the knowledge and practical tools needed to understand the experiences and needs of vulnerable athletes, identify potential risks and establish appropriate safeguards. It also promotes stronger cooperation between sports organisations, victim-support services and other relevant professionals.

Drawing on research involving 150 professionals across six countries, RECOVER has developed a set of resources that translate evidence into practical support. These include:

• A Capacity-Building Programme for sports professionals and frontline practitioners;
• An E-Guide offering practical guidance on inclusive and survivor-sensitive sports activities;
• An online e-Hub supporting learning, professional exchange and networking across Europe.

Through these resources and the capacity-building activities taking place across the partner countries, RECOVER aims to help professionals create sporting environments in which participants feel safe, respected and empowered.

Building safer and more inclusive communities

The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is an important reminder that responding to trafficking is a shared responsibility. Governments, civil society organisations, victim-support services, educational institutions, sports organisations and local communities all have a role to play.

By strengthening professional capacity and encouraging cross-sector cooperation, RECOVER contributes to a broader, person-centred response to trafficking in human beings—one that extends beyond immediate protection and recognises survivors’ right to long-term recovery, participation and inclusion.

On 30 July, we reaffirm our commitment to standing alongside victims and survivors, challenging stigma and creating communities where every person can rebuild their life with dignity. Through safe and inclusive sport, RECOVER seeks to turn participation into connection, connection into empowerment and empowerment into a pathway towards recovery.

For more information and updates, visit: www.recover-project.eu