UK Takes On Global Human Trafficking Fight
Human trafficking haunts every corner of the globe. Countries serve as sources, transit hubs, or destinations for victims. The brutal trade in men, women, and children must stop — traffickers can’t be allowed to roam free.
The UK Government has made crushing modern slavery a top priority. It’s vowed to wipe out all forms of slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking by 2030. Back in March 2020, the UK became the FIRST country to publish a Government Modern Slavery Statement, revealing how it’s rooting out slavery within its supply chains.
Global Battle Demands Global Cooperation
Human trafficking calls for a united global front. The UK works closely with groups like Alliance 8.7 and ICAT to share tactics, learn from experts, and push for effective action.
COVID-19 has made things worse, boosting the risk of worker exploitation and leaving victims more vulnerable than ever.
The OSCE is perfectly placed to lead the charge against this cross-border menace. Shoutout to Valiant Richey and the Office on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, along with ODIHR and their field teams, for their outstanding work.
Powerful Action & Survivor Voices Spotlighted
The UK backed a pioneering OSCE project aimed at slashing trafficking in government supply chains. Last week’s Alliance Against Trafficking in Persons Conference left a lasting impression — survivor testimonies showed just how huge the fight ahead is. It underlined the urgent need to keep traffickers accountable and put victims first.
What More Can We Do?
- Review national progress against OSCE commitments on combating human trafficking. Use OSCE tools to scrutinise government supply chains.
- Consider donating to ICAT, co-chaired this year by OSCE, to boost international coordination against trafficking and improve survivor support.
- Sign up to the ILO Forced Labour Protocol to strengthen prevention, protection, and compensation efforts against forced labour and trafficking.
- Donate to one of the two UN Trust Funds dedicated to victims of human trafficking and modern slavery.
The UK is all in — but the fight against trafficking needs everyone on board. Only then can traffickers be brought to justice and victims finally find freedom.
