The European Commission marked EU Anti-Trafficking Day 2016 with a short film screening followed by a discussion on human trafficking in Nicosia on 18 October at the Cyprus Turkish Medical Association and on 21 October at Famagusta Bandabulya in partnership with MAGEM, Refugee Rights Association and Cyprus Turkish Medical Association. The topics included EU’s policy on human trafficking, factors that lead to trafficking in human beings, the work of NGOs in this area as well as the local situation, measures and recommendations. After the opening speeches by Pelin Maneoğlu and Mr.Mehmet Harmancı, the presentations were made by Dr.Minel Özen, Faika Deniz Paşa, Jade Sims and Charlotte Goyon at the Nicosia event and by Mustafa Öngün, Jade Sims and Caroline Enegren at the Famagusta event. 

The aim of the events was to raise awareness on trafficking in human beings and increase the exchange of information, knowledge and best practices amongst the different actors working in this field. The European Union's policy for addressing trafficking in human beings is comprehensive focusing on prevention, protection of victims, prosecution of criminals, and the developing of partnerships with the various actors involved. This approach is human rights based, victims centred, gender specific and child sensitive.
As part of their EU-funded project, Youthopia – human rights project, MAGEM recently carried out a research component on human trafficking in the northern part of Cyprus. The Refugee Rights Association (RRA), as part of their EU-funded project “Human Rights for All,” promotes the rights of the refugees with another NGO partner, KISA. The Cyprus Turkish Medical Association is concerned with the health aspects of human trafficking victims including access to services.