You may have heard the phrase “human trafficking” but never really understood what it entailed. Human trafficking is a dangerous underground business that has gone on for many years and has yet to be fully addressed or solved. It is the process in which a person—a trafficker—uses fraud or coercion to force their victims into forced labor, sexual exploitation, or debt bondage. This can occur anywhere at any time, which is why we all need to be cautious of our surroundings and aware of this issue. A general understanding of this subject should be spread, not only for our own wellbeing but for the wellbeing of others as well.
Traffickers all over the world prey on people of all ages and genders. Statistics and studies have shown there are more reporting incidents of human trafficking for women and girls, specifically between the ages of 12-14. CTDC states, “There is a higher percentage of women in lower age groups, while men tend to have a larger share in the age groups over 30.” There are many tactics that traffickers use to lure their victims in, such as lies, deception, offering help, and seeking others’ weaknesses and vulnerabilities. People bonded within the human trafficking systems are treated like slaves, sometimes enclosed in cages or cells and forced to labor tirelessly.
There are indeed ways to help prevent these horrible acts from occurring. As a society, many people are unaware of this topic, so increasing the comprehension of trafficking is essential. The more people who know about it, the more who will be able to take certain precautions to avoid such awful and unjust acts. In order to keep yourself safe and prevent you or someone else from becoming a victim of trafficking are quite simple. For starters, you should make it a point to be more vigilant of your surroundings when you're in public. There are many aspects that can distract us from what is going on around us including our electronic devices phones, headphones, or tablets. Also, do your best, if possible, to not be alone. For example, always have a family member or buddy with you, especially during the night or near abandoned and empty areas. Do not believe and trust others easily and always be wise and cautious about who you talk to. These are the types of aspects that we should keep in mind while we are out in society so we can keep ourselves and others safe from the threat of trafficking.
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Written by: Aniah White
Edited by: Gracyn Van Bemmel