The worst kept secret of the 21st century is the crisis of human trafficking. Human Trafficking is a type of modern-day slavery, involving the exploitation of men, women, and children through the transfer of control of their personal freedoms. In other words, they are taken from their homes against their will and forced into forced labor or commercial sexual exploitation.
At its core, human trafficking is a business. Victims are traded and sold just like any other commodity, oftentimes across national borders. These traffickers make money at the cost of human lives. From exploited workers in factories to sexual exploitation in hotels, human trafficking takes place all over the world.
Human Trafficking Statistics
Unfortunately, the prevalence and impact of human trafficking can be hard to measure due to its hidden nature. It’s estimated that around the world, more than 25 million people have been trafficked, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). The most common form of trafficking is sexual exploitation, with more than 80% of all trafficking victims being female. However, it’s important to note that men and boys are also victims of human trafficking.
The impact of human trafficking goes far beyond personal suffering. Trafficking not only fuels the trampling of human rights, it can also have far reaching economic impacts. The ILO estimates that trafficking generates around US$150 billion globally each year.
What Is Being Done to Combat Human Trafficking?
Governments, NGOs, and private sector businesses are all working together to put an end to human trafficking. Governments are taking a proactive stance to reduce the demand for and supply of trafficked labor and goods. NGOs are providing support services and advocacy to help victims and raise awareness about forced labor. And private sector businesses are transitioning towards responsible practices that ensure safe and ethical employment.
It’s clear that the challenge posed by human trafficking is real, and it’s one that no single organization or government can tackle alone. To end human trafficking, everyone — from business executives and elected officials to civil society and the public — must come together to create and implement comprehensive strategies to end this pandemic of the 21st century.