If It Seems Shady It Most Likely Is: Legal Protections Against Human Trafficking

juniorjusticesllc
Aug 9, 2024
2 min read

Written by: Deola Aderemi Edited By: Isabella Alfonzo

Human trafficking is the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain unwilling labor or commercial sex acts. There are many misconceptions surrounding human trafficking, with a common one being that it isn't a severe issue. However, over 27 million innocent victims globally endure the horrors of human trafficking and forced labor, including thousands within the United States. Traffickers can be anyone, including acquaintances, friends, and even family members. More than half of trafficking victims are under the age of 26, with the majority being female. Human trafficking remains a significant issue today, yet it is not talked about enough.

What type of people are most targeted?

Human trafficking victims can come from any race, age, gender, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. Traffickers usually target individuals who are vulnerable to trafficking, such as:

Children in the welfare and juvenile systems
Racial or ethnic minorities
Migrant workers
American Indians and Alaska Natives
People with limited English proficiency
Victims of intimate partner violence or other domestic-related violence
People with disabilities
Members of the LGBTQIA+ community

The 3Ps

A common framework used to combat human trafficking globally is the 3Ps: protection, prosecution, and prevention. Sex traffickers target victims and then use violent and manipulative methods to keep them involved in the industry for the traffickers' profit.

Laws and Programs

Several laws and programs are in place to combat human trafficking and protect victims:

Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA): Enacted in 2000, this federal law provides tools to combat trafficking in persons, both worldwide and domestically. It offers protection for victims, ensures severe penalties for traffickers, and creates avenues for prevention.
The Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) of 2015: This law enhances tools for law enforcement to investigate and prosecute trafficking offenses and strengthens protections for victims. It also increases penalties for those who exploit trafficking victims.
The Blue Campaign: Launched by the Department of Homeland Security, this program aims to raise public awareness about human trafficking and provide training to law enforcement, airline personnel, and other key groups to identify and report trafficking cases.
National Human Trafficking Hotline: This vital program offers 24/7 support to victims and witnesses of human trafficking, providing a confidential way to report suspected trafficking and access resources. The hotline number is 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733.

Signs of Human Trafficking

Recognizing the signs of human trafficking is the first step in identifying victims. For your safety, do not attempt to confront a suspected trafficker. It is up to law enforcement to investigate these cases. If you believe you or someone you know is involved in any form of human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline.