Human Trafficking: Understanding the Impact and How to Help

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. To raise awareness about human trafficking and to educate the public about how to identify and prevent this crime, we put together this blog with information, tips and resources. Read on to learn how you can help prevent human trafficking and provide support to its victims in your community and all over the world.

Scope of the Problem

Human trafficking continues to be a global crisis, affecting millions of people each year. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), over 87,000 victims were officially detected worldwide in 2022, a 25% increase from pre-pandemic levels. However, the hidden nature of this crime means the true number is likely far higher. The Global Slavery Index estimates that more than 40 million people globally may be living in modern slavery, including victims of forced labor, sexual exploitation, and forced marriage.

Specific Impact on Children

Children are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking, with the UNODC reporting that 38% of detected victims in 2022 were minors. Many children are trafficked for forced labor, sexual exploitation, or even forced begging. The long-term impact on trafficked children includes severe physical and psychological harm, disruption of education, and loss of childhood.

Key Statistics on Children and Trafficking:

31% increase in detected child victims from 2019 to 2022.

Many trafficked children come from vulnerable populations, such as those living in poverty or conflict zones.

Child victims are often exploited by people they know, including family members or community members.

How to Prevent Human Trafficking

Preventing human trafficking requires a multi-faceted approach, including community awareness, education, and stronger legal protections. Here are practical steps individuals and communities can take:

1. Increase Awareness

Educate yourself and others about the signs of human trafficking.

Host community workshops or seminars to spread awareness.

Share resources and information on social media to reach a broader audience.

2. Support Vulnerable Populations

Volunteer with or donate to organizations that support at-risk groups, such as low-income families, refugees, and homeless youth.

Advocate for policies that provide better social support and protection for vulnerable communities.

3. Recognize the Signs of Trafficking

Signs that someone may be a victim of trafficking include:

Sudden changes in behavior or appearance.

Lack of control over personal identification documents.

Signs of physical abuse or neglect.

Working long hours in poor conditions with little or no pay.

4. Report Suspicious Activity

If you suspect someone is a victim of trafficking, contact the appropriate authorities or a trusted organization immediately.

Contact Information for Nonprofits and Resources

National Human Trafficking Hotline (U.S.): 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733. Available 24/7.

UNODC Global Trafficking Hotline: Visit www.unodc.org for resources and regional contacts.

Polaris Project: www.polarisproject.org – Provides support, resources, and advocacy for victims of human trafficking.

ECPAT International: www.ecpat.org – Focuses on ending the sexual exploitation of children.

Walk Free Foundation: www.walkfree.org – Publisher of the Global Slavery Index and advocate for ending modern slavery.

Final Thoughts

Human trafficking is a crime that thrives in secrecy, affecting millions of lives globally. Children, in particular, are at significant risk of exploitation. By increasing awareness, supporting vulnerable populations, recognizing the signs of trafficking, and reporting suspicious activity, we can all play a part in combating this crisis. Together, we can work towards a world where every individual lives free from exploitation and fear.

Watch and share this video lesson on Human Trafficking Prevention with tips and resources, appropriate for grades 5 – 12. Sign up for free to add this lesson to your Lessonbee health education class.