World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
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To our community,
A New Leaf observes World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, a United Nations-designated day observed annually on July 30th to raise awareness about the prevalence of human trafficking and the need for collective action to prevent and combat it. This day is to highlight the many victims in of need assistance and support. It is also an opportunity to promote the international community’s efforts to prevent human trafficking, protect survivors and prosecute those who commit this horrible crime.
The day encourages individuals like you, governments, organizations, and communities to take action to end human trafficking and support survivors. Trafficking is a serious issue amongst the modern world, an issue that you have the power to help eradicate. We empower you to take part in this important day dedicated to ensuring that no one ever suffers from trafficking again. You can make a difference.
Sincerely,
Dana Martinez
Director of DV and SV Services
A New Leaf
Click Below to View Each Section!
UNDERSTAND WHAT TRAFFICKING LOOKS LIKE
LEARN ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF TRAFFICKING
UNDERSTAND THE STATE OF TRAFFICKING IN ARIZONA
SEE WHAT IS BEING DONE ABOUT THIS ISSUE
KNOW THE CHALLENGES OF FACING THIS ISSUE
FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN HELP
Learn What Human Trafficking Is
Human trafficking is a serious crime that involves the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of individuals through the use of force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of exploitation. The exploitation can take many forms, including sexual exploitation, forced labor, forced marriage, organ removal, and other forms of slavery-like practices. It is a violation of basic human rights, and the victims of human trafficking are often subjected to physical and psychological abuse, deprived of their freedom, and denied basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare. Human trafficking is a global problem that affects every region of the world, and it is a multi-billion dollar industry that fuels other forms of organized crime.
Human trafficking can take many forms, but the most common types include:
1. Sex trafficking
2. Labor trafficking
3. Forced marriage
4. Organ trafficking
5. Child trafficking
6. Forced criminal activities
Human trafficking is a serious violation of human rights. It violates the basic human right to freedom and dignity. Addressing the issue of human trafficking is crucial for protecting the human rights of victims, promoting social and economic development, and ensuring global security.
Human trafficking has devastating consequences for victims. Victims of human trafficking often suffer from physical and psychological harm, including sexual and physical abuse, torture, and trauma. They may also be deprived of their basic needs, such as food, shelter, and healthcare. The consequences of trafficking can last a lifetime, affecting the victim’s mental and physical health, relationships, and future opportunities.
A global issue that affects countries and communities worldwide, human trafficking is a multi-billion dollar industry that fuels other forms of organized crime, including drug trafficking and money laundering. This crime impedes social and economic development by perpetuating poverty and inequality, undermining the rule of law, and hindering efforts to achieve sustainable development goals. Human trafficking is a threat to global security, contributing to the spread of transnational organized crime, corruption, and terrorism.
The exact prevalence of human trafficking worldwide is difficult to measure due to the hidden and often covert nature of the crime. However, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports that human trafficking occurs in every region of the world, with the Asia-Pacific region being the most affected. In this region, forced labor and sexual exploitation are the most common forms of trafficking.
Other regions with high rates of human trafficking include Africa, where trafficking for forced labor and sexual exploitation are prevalent, and Europe, where trafficking for sexual exploitation, forced labor, and forced criminal activities are common. The Americas and the Middle East also report significant levels of human trafficking, with trafficking for sexual exploitation, forced labor, and forced marriage being the most common forms in these regions.
Estimated global victims of human trafficking
Labor trafficking victims
Sex trafficking victims
The Effects of Human Trafficking
Victims of human trafficking suffer from a range of physical and psychological harms as a result of their exploitation. A New Leaf understands that the effects can be long term and oftentimes permanent. We arm our sexual assault and homeless shelters with the resources and trained professionals to offer survivors the help and aid that they need and deserve.
PHYSICAL EFFECTS
Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Malnutrition and dehydration
Exposure to hazardous working conditions
Lack of access to medical care
Chronic pain and injuries
Forced drug use or exposure to drugs and other substances
PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS
Depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Fear, shame, and guilt
Social isolation and disconnection from family and friends
Loss of trust in others and the world around them
Hopelessness and a sense of helplessness
Human trafficking has a significant economic impact on both communities and countries. It is estimated that the global economic impact of human trafficking is in the billions of dollars each year.
Communities where trafficking occurs may experience a decline in social cohesion and trust as a result of the exploitation and abuse of victims. In addition, trafficking can have negative effects on the local economy. Traffickers may take advantage of vulnerable populations and offer low wages or no pay at all, which can depress wages and working conditions in the local labor market. Trafficking can also lead to increased crime and corruption, which can further damage the local economy.
Countries where trafficking occurs may experience a range of economic impacts. Trafficking can lead to a loss of human capital as victims are often forced into low-paying or unpaid labor. It can also lead to decreased productivity and competitiveness in the labor market. In addition, trafficking can result in increased health care costs, as victims may require medical care for physical and psychological injuries.
Trafficking can also have a negative impact on international trade and investment. Companies may be hesitant to invest in countries with high levels of trafficking due to concerns about ethical standards and reputation risk. In addition, trafficking can create supply chain risks for companies that rely on migrant labor or global supply chains.
Addressing the economic impact of trafficking requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of trafficking and supports victims and communities affected by trafficking. This includes efforts to strengthen labor protections and combat corruption, as well as initiatives to support economic development and social inclusion in vulnerable communities.
Human Trafficking in Arizona
According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, Arizona consistently ranks in the top 15 states for reported cases of human trafficking.
In 2021, the National Human Trafficking Hotline received 650 calls reporting human trafficking in Arizona.
Sex trafficking is the most common form of human trafficking in Arizona, followed by labor trafficking.
Phoenix, Arizona’s capital city, is a major hub for human trafficking due to its proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border and its large population.
The majority of human trafficking victims in Arizona are women and children, and many are trafficked for the purpose of sexual exploitation.
The average age of a sex trafficking victim in Arizona is between 12 and 14 years old.
Human Trafficking Prevention
A New Leaf recognizes that human trafficking is a major issue in Arizona. That is why we are dedicated to making sure that victims looking for refuge find security and hope through our programs. We are dedicated to being a part of the solution to this immense and complex issue. A New Leaf works with local police departments to take in victims exiting trafficking, providing shelter, and a soft landing on their path towards healing.
During 2021, there was an increase in the number of trafficking survivors seeking shelter at A New Leaf’s Autumn House and Faith House emergency crisis shelters. By utilizing an ASU questionnaire, staff discovered that many of the survivors referred to the shelter for domestic violence had also experienced labor and/or sex trafficking in the past.
Domestic Violence Safe Temporary Overflow Program (DVSTOP), three emergency crisis shelters, and survivor outreach programs have provided services to many trafficking survivors, with more still in development. These services are available in Maricopa and Pinal Counties, and A New Leaf intends to continue expanding outreach efforts to reach and support more survivors for years to come.
There are several international laws and agreements that aim to prevent human trafficking and protect the rights of trafficking victims:
The U.N. Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime
The primary international legal framework for addressing human trafficking. The convention requires states to criminalize human trafficking, provide protection and assistance to victims, and promote international cooperation in preventing and combating trafficking.
The Palermo Protocol
Supplement to the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, specifically focused on human trafficking. It provides a common definition of trafficking in persons, outlines measures for prevention, prosecution, and protection of victims, and calls for international cooperation and coordination.
The International Labour Organization's Forced Labour Convention
Prohibits all forms of forced labor, including trafficking for labor exploitation, and requires states to take steps to prevent and eliminate forced labor.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Asserts that all individuals have the right to freedom from slavery and forced labor, and the right to work in safe and healthy conditions.
The Convention on the Rights of the Child
Affirms the rights of children to be protected from exploitation and abuse, and outlines measures for preventing child trafficking and providing assistance and protection to child victims.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
Responsible for implementing the UN Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, which aims to prevent and combat human trafficking. UNODC works with governments, civil society organizations, and other partners to develop and implement effective anti-trafficking strategies and policies.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
Responsible for implementing the UN Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, which aims to prevent and combat human trafficking. UNODC works with governments, civil society organizations, and other partners to develop and implement effective anti-trafficking strategies and policies.
The United Nations Children's Fund
Works to protect children from trafficking and exploitation. It provides support and assistance to child victims of trafficking, advocates for stronger laws and policies to protect children, and promotes public awareness and education on child trafficking.
The International Labour Organization
Works to promote decent work and fair labor practices, and to eliminate forced labor and human trafficking. It provides technical assistance to governments and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective policies and programs to prevent trafficking and support victims.
Interpol
International police organization that works to prevent and combat transnational crime, including human trafficking. It supports national law enforcement agencies by facilitating information-sharing and providing technical assistance and training to help them identify and prosecute traffickers.
The United Nations Global Initiative to Fight Human Trafficking
Global partnership that brings together governments, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to develop and implement coordinated and effective strategies to prevent and combat human trafficking.
Challenges
Implementing and enforcing anti-trafficking measures can be challenging due to a variety of factors.
Many countries lack the resources, including financial and human resources, needed to effectively combat human trafficking. This can make it difficult to implement comprehensive anti-trafficking measures, including prevention, protection, and prosecution efforts.
Corruption among law enforcement officials and other government officials can undermine efforts to combat human trafficking. Corrupt officials may facilitate trafficking or turn a blind eye to it, making it difficult to prosecute traffickers and protect victims.
Some governments may not prioritize the issue of human trafficking, which can make it difficult to implement and enforce effective anti-trafficking measures. This can be due to a variety of factors, including competing priorities, lack of public awareness or understanding of the issue, or political considerations.
Human trafficking often takes place in clandestine settings and can involve complex networks of individuals and organizations. This can make it difficult to identify and prosecute traffickers, particularly in cases where victims are reluctant or unable to come forward.
Victims of human trafficking may be reluctant to come forward due to fear of retaliation or lack of trust in law enforcement. In some cases, victims may also face legal barriers to accessing protection or support services, which can further discourage them from seeking help.
Overall, these challenges highlight the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to combating human trafficking, which includes efforts to address root causes, prevent trafficking, protect victims, and prosecute traffickers. It also underscores the importance of international cooperation and coordination to address the transnational nature of human trafficking.
What Can You Do To Help?
A New Leaf’s work alone isn’t enough to tackle every issue of human trafficking. It requires the effort of every citizen to put an end to this injustice.
There are several ways to get involved:
Volunteer for and/or donate to local organizations that work to combat trafficking:
Spread awareness: Educate yourself and others about the issue of human trafficking and how to identify and report potential cases. Share information on social media and engage in conversations with friends and family to raise awareness.
Advocate for stronger laws and policies: Contact your elected representatives to urge them to support legislation and policies that address human trafficking. This can include supporting funding for anti-trafficking efforts, strengthening penalties for traffickers, and improving protections for victims.
Be a responsible consumer: Support companies that have strong anti-trafficking policies and avoid products or services that may be associated with human trafficking, such as forced labor in the supply chain.
The Signs of Trafficking
Victims frequently do not seek help due to language barriers, fear of their traffickers, or fear of law enforcement. Because human trafficking is considered a hidden crime, several key indicators can help people recognize potential endangerment and notify law enforcement. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has a list of indicators you can use to help identify victims.
These indicators include:
Appearing malnourished
Appearing injured or having signs of physical abuse
Avoiding eye contact, social interaction, and law enforcement
Responding in manners that seem rehearsed or scripted
Lacking personal identification documents
Lacking personal possessions
If you suspect someone may be a victim of trafficking, report it to law enforcement or contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888