Government to debate human trafficking

The Czech government is set to debate an expansion of the criminal offence of human trafficking to include the abuse of surrogacy, illegal adoption and forced marriage. The proposed amendment to the Criminal Code would also introduce a new offence targeting people who knowingly use the services of victims of modern slavery, and clarify liability in cases where injuries or damage occur during court-ordered community service. The cabinet is expected to reject an opposition-backed amendment on preventing environmental damage, arguing it would increase costs and bureaucracy. The meeting will be chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Alena Schillerová (ANO party ) due to the absence of PM Andrej Babiš, who is visiting Bavaria.