Human trafficking impacts millions of people around the world each day. However, there is hope in the fight against this pandemic. Here are 10 ways to stop human trafficking, starting with five actions you can take immediately.
- Raise Awareness – Protect Your Children
This is the first line of defense. When someone is made aware of the large-scale issue that is human trafficking, they are better equipped to combat it. An essential component for parents in protecting their children is educating them on the risks they may face online.
In 2020, the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline identified a 22% increase in online recruitment into trafficking schemes and reported the internet as the top recruitment location for all forms of trafficking.
OUR Rescue offers many educational resources to support increasing awareness, including warning signs to look for. Additionally, we offer a FREE PDF to educate parents and help them start essential conversations with their children.
- Encourage Policy Change
Everyone has a voice; use yours to spark needed changes at a local, national, or even international level. Policy changes can provide additional protection for victims, increased support for survivors, and more severe consequences for predators. There are many ways to encourage policy change:
- Vote
- Write to elected officials
- Participate in peaceful demonstrations
- Share the facts
- Monitor Supply Chains
What do supply chains have to do with human trafficking? A lot. To turn a greater profit on their products, businesses will sometimes use forced labor or child labor. Consumers should always check to see where a product came from and how it was made before purchasing.
Everyone can make a difference by refusing to buy products that have been flagged by the Bureau of International Labor Affairs.
- Support Anti-Trafficking NGOs
There are many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) around the world that are dedicated to the fight against human trafficking, including OUR Rescue. Choosing to donate, volunteer, or support an NGO in any way can lead to a significant impact in the fight for a better world. Find one that you most closely connect with and support their efforts.
- Contact Authorities
If you see something that raises human trafficking red flags, contact the authorities immediately. This could be the needed difference in someone’s life.
The next five ways to stop human trafficking require collaboration between everyone, from law enforcement and NGOs, to citizens.
- Collaborate Across Borders
Human trafficking is an international issue. Because of this, collaboration between different countries, law enforcement agencies, and NGOs is required to help those in need, arrest predators, and protect the vulnerable. Without collaboration, the fight against human trafficking cannot be won.
- Empower Vulnerable Communities
To prevent trafficking at its root, financial investments in vulnerable communities are helpful. These investments will empower new educational and economic opportunities, reducing the risk of individuals being targeted by human traffickers.
- Target Demand
Demand is what fuels the $150 billion human trafficking industry. Without it, human trafficking would not happen. Early intervention is key to removing the demand that currently exists.
- Train Law Enforcement and First Responders
Specialized training equips law enforcement and first responders with the ability to recognize potential human trafficking situations and respond effectively. OUR Rescue offers these trainings, increasing the knowledge and expanding the skillsets of those on the frontlines in the fight to end human trafficking.
- Support Survivors
Services that support human trafficking survivors are critical. Without this support, individuals are at a higher risk of being re-trafficked. Through Survivor Care, OUR Rescue helps provide survivors with the resources necessary to heal after suffering unimaginable traumas. Support services for survivors include:
- Safe housing
- Medical & psychological care
- Legal assistance
- Job training
About OUR Rescue
We lead the fight against child sexual exploitation and human trafficking worldwide.
Our work spans the globe as we assist law enforcement in rescue efforts and help provide survivor care to all those affected. While we prioritize children, we work to empower the liberation of anyone suffering at the hands of those looking to sexually exploit. We offer vital resources to authorities around the world and work tirelessly to raise awareness and meet survivors on their healing journey.
10 Ways to Stop Human Trafficking FAQs
How can I personally get involved in the fight against human trafficking, even if I’m not part of an organization?
Raise awareness, encourage policy change, monitor supply chains, support anti-trafficking NGOs, and contact authorities if you see something suspicious.
Why should I closely monitor what I buy?
If you don’t, you could be supporting human trafficking. Businesses will sometimes use forced labor or child labor to turn a greater profit on their products. Always check to see where a product came from and how it was made before making a purchase.
Review products that have been flagged by the Bureau of International Labor Affairs.
What factors can lead to a human trafficking survivor getting re-trafficked?
A lack of support services like safe housing, medical & psychological care, legal assistance, and job training.