Originally published on the CGS blog on November 6, 2008.
Although many of us may think of human trafficking as a problem of the past, even today destinies of millions of people all around the world are affected by forced labor, involuntary servitude, forced prostitution or pornography. Not only people in the Third World, but also Americans and citizens from other developed countries are still, unfortunately, encountering victims of so called modern-day slavery. According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), estimated 12.3 million throughout the world are being exploited and facing coercion, abduction, deception, or the abuse of power.
The U.S. administration has been trying to solve this hot issue for a while. Since 2003, the U.S. has contributed $50 million to help combat human trafficking in many countries- Brazil, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Moldova, Sierra Leone and Tanzania. This negligible sum compared to $700 billion bailout or costly presidential campaigns. Money from American taxpayers has financed some activities of non-governmental international organizations, and government entities which contribute to protect victims, prosecute traffickers, and increase public awareness of this crime (government ministries, and officers from the local army and police). According to U.S. Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking on Persons, concrete improvements, such as reducing numbers of forced labor and effective prevention, have emerged.
Besides direct financing of the above mentioned projects, the U.S. government actively searches for solutions for those who suffered from such inhumane dealing. Being aware of the fact, that even after being rescued, tough times for the abused did not come to an end, U.S. Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking on Persons said, and will soon issue an official report on how to help those who personally survived human trafficking. A symposium of experienced victim service providers found out that to get over the unbearable feeling of fear victims firstly need a safe shelter. Interestingly, such a feeling of safety is reached for instance by bulletproof windows and professional security guides. After being traumatized from serving as a sex slave, a psychological evaluation and treatment is oftentimes needed. As many of victims are HIV positive or have other illnesses, they demand medical care as well. When the most urgent needs are satisfied, people with painful experiences should be reintegrated into community by becoming involved into the working process. Therefore, the experts with various experience concluded that victims should be advised how to enter a work environment with training in self motivation, work ethics, developing competency, interview preparation, career counseling, and literacy. During this training, people may make first contacts with their future employer. Then, one can effectively assist victims by a small loan provided within so called micro-credit programs.
In conclusion, having observed success of financial aid thus far, we already know that money can be distributed to victims of trafficking personally and efficiently. Theoretically, experts also know how to assist victims of human trafficking and which projects are helpful to victims. Now, the only “to do” is to put it all in practice.
