Human trafficking victims in Italy shift toward men and labour exploitation, 2021-2025
Italy's protection system registered 3,520 people in 2025, up from 2,398 in 2021. Of these, 1,964 were formally identified as trafficking victims in 2025, including 966 men and 915 women. Agriculture accounts for 47.6% of identified labour exploitation cases.
What does it mean?
More people in Italy are being spotted and checked for trafficking each year. The share of men has grown sharply, and men now make up about half of those reached by the protection system. Most labour exploitation cases found are in farming.
Who is affected?
Men and women who are victims of trafficking or severe exploitation in Italy, including minors and workers exploited in agriculture.
What changes?
In 2021 the protection system registered 2,398 people, with men at 26.1% and Nigerians at 57.8%. In 2025 it registered 3,520 people, with men at 52.5% and Nigerians at 18.2%.