Countries must enable victims of human trafficking to play a key role in programs and policies to tackle the crime, the first global alliance of survivors-turned-advocates said on Monday.

The 21-member International Survivors of Trafficking Advisory Council aims to help governments improve their anti-trafficking efforts and ensure they are focused on victims.

Federal police officers lead women out of a house during a raid in a red-light district of Rastatt, southern Germany, on April 18, 2018. Photo: VCG

The council was set up by the human rights arm of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) - a watchdog covering 57 member states - amid growing calls for trafficking survivors to be trained as leaders in the movement. 

While survivors of modern slavery are often relied upon to share their stories and support other victims, few are given the chance to influence or spearhead anti-trafficking initiatives.

During the virtual launch, speakers ranging from UN and US officials to Britain's Princess Eugenie - who campaigns on the issue - said the council should inspire countries to ensure such efforts are not only informed by survivors but led by them.

"Engagement of survivors must be substantive and not tokenistic," said OSCE Special Representative Valiant Richey.

"Their voices can help mobilize the most important ingredient in the fight against trafficking: political will."

UN special rapporteur on trafficking Siobhan Mullally said survivor-led initiatives were best placed to respond to changing trends, reach out to victims, and challenge stigma.