Human Trafficking
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What is Human Trafficking? Human Trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of people through force, abduction, fraud or deception for the purpose of exploitation. It is the trade of humans for forced labour, sexual slavery, commercial sexual exploitation, or organ harvest. This crime violates rights through coercion and restrictions of movement, and can occur within a country or across borders, affecting men, women, and children of all backgrounds.
Global Statistics (2025)
- 27.6 million men, women, and children are in forced labour worldwide. (ILO, 2025)
- 63% of forced labour occurs in the private economy.
- $236 billion USD generated in illegal profits from forced labour every year.
- Trafficking affects all countries and all economic sectors.
- For more, see the ILO Forced Labour 2025 Facts and the UNODC Human Trafficking pages.
Types of Human Trafficking
Sexual Exploitation
The most well-known form of human trafficking. It includes forcing individuals to engage in commercial sex acts such as prostitution or pornography. Children are especially vulnerable.
Child Labour
Millions of children are exploited for labor or commercial sex. The commercial sexual exploitation of children is trafficking, regardless of circumstances.
Debt Bondage
Occurs when a person is forced to work to repay a debt and cannot leave until the debt is repaid, often trapping them in slavery.
Labour Trafficking
Forced labor occurs when individuals are compelled against their will to provide work or service through force, fraud, or coercion. Victims can be any age, race, or gender.
Domestic Servitude
Victims are forced to work in private residences, often abused and unable to leave. They may not receive pay or basic protections.
Organ Harvesting
Victims are trafficked for the removal and sale of organs. This is a serious and often deadly form of exploitation.
Forced Begging
Children and adults are forced to beg for money, often under threat or coercion. This is one of the most visible forms of trafficking.
Forced Marriage
Marriage without consent, often involving threats or coercion. Considered a form of modern slavery and human trafficking.
Survivor Story
Watch this real survivor's story to understand the human impact of trafficking and the importance of support and awareness.
Infographics & Resources
Who is a Trafficker?
Anybody can be a trafficker, including someone close to the victim. Traffickers often promise a better life or job, but exploit their victims for profit.
- The Recruiter
- The Guide
- The Transporter
- The Receiver
- The Seller/Sponsor
- The Buyer/Madam
Causes of Human Trafficking
- Unemployment
- Poverty
- Homelessness
- Political Instability
- High Cost of Living
- Violence against Women and Children
Prevention
Prevention starts with awareness. Parents, communities, and individuals must be vigilant and educate themselves and others about trafficking risks and tactics.