The Ministry of Labor and Social Security announced on March 17 the official signing of an institutional protocol aimed at detecting, referring, and reintegrating possible cases of human trafficking in the workplace.
The new protocol is intended to strengthen the ministry’s response to potential trafficking crimes and enhance protection for workers. It provides staff with a standardized tool to react more quickly and effectively when faced with suspected cases.
According to the ministry, the document was developed with technical support from the International Organization for Migration, beginning in 2024, and involved various departments within the ministry. The Minister of Labor and Social Security, Andrés Romero Rodríguez, said: “La trata de personas es un delito sumamente grave y,generalmente, se relaciona con otros delitos como el crimen organizado, delitossexuales, trabajo forzoso, trabajo infantil, entre otros, que son flagelos parala sociedad. Ante estos casos, el MTSS debe reaccionar de forma rápida ycontundente, lo cual buscamos con este protocolo, que brinda la claridadnecesaria para un abordaje integral, que permita proteger a las presuntasvíctimas y dar aviso oportuno ante las autoridades competentes como laFiscalía, el PANI, el INAMU y otras.”
The protocol outlines a three-stage process: detection during inspections or public services; referral to relevant authorities; and labor reintegration for victims through employment services and specialized support. This approach aims to ensure timely activation of protective mechanisms when risk indicators are identified.
The initiative reaffirms the ministry’s commitment as Costa Rica’s lead agency on labor matters to improve early detection capabilities and provide comprehensive care for affected individuals. The event took place at the Calderón Guardia Museum Auditorium with participation from ministry officials, representatives from the International Organization for Migration, and other institutions involved in addressing these crimes.
