Every January, organizations around the country seek to raise awareness about human trafficking, its prevailing causes, and how to prevent trafficking from continuing to occur.
“During this month, we celebrate the efforts of foreign governments, international organizations, anti-trafficking entities, law enforcement officials, survivor advocates, communities of faith, businesses, and private citizens all around the world to raise awareness about human trafficking.” – United States Department of State
Root Causes of Human Trafficking
Cut the Roots of Trafficking
In order to prevent human trafficking, one of the first steps is to identify the root causes. Globally, there are many root causes of human trafficking, but a few key ones stand out. Let’s work together to #CutTheRoots
Mass Displacement
In 2022, there were over 100 million people displaced from their homes internationally and domestically. According to UNHCR, The UN Refugee Agency, an estimated 117.2 million people will be displaced in 2023. Displacement contributes to trafficking because situational instability can create a vulnerable environment for potential victims.
Extreme Poverty
35% of the world’s population are living on less than $2 a day, 2.5 billion children, women, and men are at risk for human traffickers. Traffickers target those who have few economic resources and opportunities with the promise of meeting basic needs.
Power Inequality
Gender-based violence is a contributing factor to a trafficking cycle. A large majority of identified trafficked victims are women and girls; however, men and boys are also victims of different forms of trafficking. Females represent 94% of victims trafficked for sexual exploitation, while male victims reflect 82% of trafficking for organ removal.
Objectification of Human Beings
When taken to extremes, traditional male roles may objectify and devalue women – and the domination, control, and oppression promotes human trafficking. According to the International Labor Organization, approximately 70% of the estimated 40.3M people subjected to modern slavery, which includes trafficking and forced marriage, are women and girls.