How is globalization related to the illegal trafficking of human beings?
Due to the advancement in travel and trade, globalization has led to an increase in the trafficking of human beings. Traffickers have taken advantage of broadband communication systems, transparent borders, and instability in countries. These individuals have preyed on vulnerable people and have made massive profits as they have lured those that seek opportunities of the West to improve their quality of lives into victims.
What do the statistics from the Polaris project tell us about human trafficking globally and in the U.S.?
In 2018, the Polaris Project highlighted that over ten thousand human trafficking cases occurred in the United States. Other instances involved over twenty-three thousand survivors and almost six thousand potential traffickers that have not been arrested. Human trafficking globally is being underreported due to the massive profits that this illegal business brings in. There are over four million victims of sex trafficking globally, and ninety percent of these are mainly women and girls.
What are some of the positive international developments taking place to combat illegal trafficking?
Around the world, governments have started responding to illegal trafficking through the creation of anti-trafficking programs in the country of origin. The primary focus is mainly on education and awareness campaigns and legislative reforms. The U.S Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 focuses on preventing and safeguarding trafficking survivors and also prosecuting traffickers. Denmark legislated a National Action Plan against Trafficking that concentrates on helping trafficked victims and assists them in getting treatment from the relevant authorities. In France, the government established a national plan action against human trafficking that concentrates on cracking down networks associated with trafficking and protecting victims.
What is the UN doing to stop human trafficking?
The UN has raised awareness and developed capacities on trafficking migrants. In Africa, this organization has assisted in establishing workshops that educate border control officers on the international and human rights instruments concerning people in transit. It has also created structures that will safeguard and identify human rights violations in various countries. The UN has also provided support to aviation authorities in the identification of trafficking victims.