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Measures to prevent, suppress and punish trafficking in persons for the purpose of exploitation. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in reply to its previous direct request on the subject. It notes with interest the practical measures undertaken by the Government to combat trafficking, in cooperation with the governments of the Nordic and Baltic countries, and in particular Iceland’s campaign against trafficking in women which was launched in February 2003, as well as the creation of a working group on trafficking, with the participation of various governmental and non-governmental organizations, which is coordinated by the Ministries of Justice and Social Affairs.

The Committee also notes with interest the adoption, in March 2003, of the amendments to the Penal Code, under which trafficking in persons is punishable by sanctions of imprisonment for a term of up to eight years.

The Committee would appreciate it if the Government would provide, in its next report, information on the carrying out of the anti-trafficking campaign and on the activities of the working group referred to above, including copies of any reports, studies and inquiries, as well as available statistics. Please also provide information on the application in practice of the abovementioned amendments to the Penal Code, including information on any legal proceedings which have been instituted in connection with trafficking in persons for the purpose of exploitation and on any penalties imposed on perpetrators.