Sex trafficking is one of the most well-known forms of modern day slavery. According to the United Nations, it is the most common form of human trafficking. Not only is sex trafficking a human rights violation, but also a public health crisis.
Sex trafficking is when a person uses force, violence, threats, or manipulation to make adults and minors commit commercial sexual acts. Sometimes, traffickers coerce their victims with drugs, alcohol, shelter, or food. Other times, victims are physically stolen and kept in a way to ensure they cannot escape.
Individuals who have been trafficked for sex do not always reach out for help due to feelings of humiliation or despair. Other common reasons for not seeking help include financial dependence on their trafficker and traumatization. Additionally, it is not uncommon for these individuals to be arrested for prostitution rather than being considered victims of trafficking and abuse. This means that people are hesitant to report that they are in danger for fear of being charged for committing a crime they were forced to commit.
Youth who are in foster-care, experiencing homelessness, or who have run away from home face increased risk of sex trafficking.
To hear about sex trafficking from a survivor’s perspective, please read this interview with Molly who was trafficked as a young adult.
Sources:
https://www.dosomething.org/us/facts/11-facts-about-human-trafficking
https://polarisproject.org/human-trafficking/facts
https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/—dgreports/—dcomm/documents/publication/wcms_575479.pdf
https://www.acf.hhs.gov/otip/victim-assistance/national-human-trafficking-hotline
