Human trafficking refers to the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act. Millions of men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide every year. Victims can be of any age, gender, race, or nationality. Traffickers may use violence, manipulation, and false promises to lure victims into trafficking situations.
Elements of human trafficking include the act, the means, and the purpose. Persons committing the act of trafficking do so with the intent of exploiting vulnerable persons – and that exploitation may include prostitution, forced labor, slavery, or organ removal.
Traffickers prey on those who are most vulnerable, especially psychologically or emotionally. They look for people who suffer economic hardships, those who are affected by national disasters or those in areas of political instability.
By keeping victims isolated (physically and emotionally), traffickers maintain their control over the situation.
Human trafficking is a serious crime and a human rights violation. Almost every country in the world is affected by trafficking, either as a country of origin, as a country of transit or as a destination for victims. Recognizing the indicators of human trafficking is a key component in identifying more victims and helping them find the help they need.
Human Trafficking
