Between October 14 and 29, 2026, the fall edition of the educational project Escapetruck was implemented in the Lower Silesian, Opole, and Silesian Voivodeships. This was the seventh iteration of the project, whose main objective is to combat human trafficking by shaping social awareness and training public services. The ceremonial summary of this year's activities took place in Pszczyna, with the participation of, among others, the Voivode of Silesia and representatives of the National Police Headquarters.
Scope and Scale of This Year's Action
During the final stage of the project, the Escapetruck vehicles visited 16 localities. In the educational activities, which aimed to deliver a preventive message, a total of 1,677 people participated. Simultaneously with the sessions for youth, training was conducted for 507 police officers, focusing on aspects of combating and preventing human trafficking crimes.
The project's history dates back to October 2023, when the first, pilot edition took place. Since then, the initiative has gradually expanded its reach, arriving in a total of 76 cities across the country. The organizers of this year's edition were the Silesian Provincial Police Headquarters and the Pszczyna County Office, with the support of the Pszczyna County Police Headquarters.
Methodology and Educational Message
The project is based on the use of a specially arranged vehicle that enables participants to understand the perpetrators' mechanisms of action in a practical way. The interior of the Escapetruck has been adapted to reflect the realities of the difficult conditions that human trafficking victims face. For many young people participating in the sessions, this was their first direct exposure to this topic.
During the sessions, particular emphasis was placed on identifying threats resulting from excessive trust, accepting unverified job offers, or taking on work trips without proper preparation. Criminals often exploit the emotions and needs of their future victims, using manipulation and false promises. A key element of the education was emphasizing the importance of communication—young people were encouraged to inform their loved ones about their plans and to consult important decisions with trusted persons. The organizers assured that asking for help is a conscious care for safety, not a sign of weakness.
Partnership and Future of the Project
The implementation of the project is funded from the budget of the Ministry of Interior and Administration. Representatives of public administration, local governments, education, and regional institutions took part in the summary event. Guests from abroad were also present, including a representative of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and a representative of the Centre for Human Trafficking Research at the University of Wroclaw.
As stated by the organizers, the high interest in the action and the positive reception of previous editions lead to the planning of further educational activities. The paramount goal of Escapetruck remains the systematic building of social awareness and the learning of how to recognize warning signals, which is of key importance in the context of citizens' safety.