On behalf of the authorities, Stephan Fuchs and his association look after victims of human trafficking throughout Switzerland. This crime thrives particularly well in Central Switzerland, because the police often have to look the other way here, says the Lucerne native in an interview. People from abroad are being exploited in the very midst of our society.
And usually without any consequences for the perpetrators. The police have too few resources at their disposal - especially in Lucerne, the largest canton in the region. Stephan Fuchs knows what consequences this has for the victims, and ultimately for the fight against crime. The year-old is co-head of the Trafficking. Among other things, the organisation supports the victims and witnesses of human trafficking.
What condition are the victims of human trafficking in when they come to you? Stephan Fuchs : For these persons, their world falls apart. They are afraid of possible consequences from the migration authorities, but also that the pimps could carry out their threats and harm their family in their home country.
The fear of consequences is even greater within family structures than in larger criminal organisations. The victims come to your shelter for a reflection period of 30 days, where they can consider whether to press charges. The period is sometimes extended by the respective public prosecutor's office.
What phases do the victims and witnesses go through? There are strong waves. The initial fear is followed by a phase of euphoria, because they become aware of their current safety and start thinking about making the offender's pay for their behaviour.
