Vulnerabilities caused by poverty, conflict, and climate change have led to a 31 per cent increase in child trafficking cases since 2019, says UNODC in its latest report. The report — The 2024 Global Report on Trafficking in Persons — also highlights a 25% surge in global trafficking victims detected in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
KEY FINDINGS
- Child Victims on the Rise: Child trafficking accounted for 38% of detected victims in 2022. There was a 38% increase in cases involving girls. Unaccompanied boys, especially in conflict zones, are increasingly targeted.
- Forced Labour and Exploitation: The number of victims trafficked for forced labour has risen by 47% since 2019. Women and girls stay most vulnerable, with 61% of all victims trafficked for sexual exploitation.
- Emerging Trends: Trafficking for forced criminality is increasing. Activities like online scams and cyber fraud now account for 8% of victims. This is up from 1% in 2016.
VULNERABILITIES DRIVING TRAFFICKING
UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly emphasized the impact of global crises:
“Conflicts, climate-induced disasters, and economic challenges have exacerbated vulnerabilities worldwide. Children are disproportionately affected, and trafficking for forced labour and online scams is on the rise. Women and girls face heightened risks of sexual exploitation and violence.”
FOCUS ON AFRICA: A REGION OF HIGH VULNERABILITY
The 2024 report offers unprecedented insights into trafficking patterns across Africa. Extensive data collection efforts by UNODC and partners give a detailed look at trends:
- African Victims Detected Globally: African trafficking victims accounted for the highest number of cross-border flows. They reached 128 destination countries in 2022.
- Intra-Regional Trafficking: Most African victims are trafficked within the continent, driven by displacement, insecurity, and climate change. Children, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, are often trafficked for forced labour, sexual exploitation, and begging.
- Child Victims in Africa: Children outnumber adult victims in most African regions, highlighting a critical area for intervention.
POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TACKLING TRAFFICKING
UNODC’s report includes actionable steps to combat human trafficking and protect victims:
- Strengthen Victim Identification: Invest in robust systems for detecting and supporting trafficking victims.
- Enhance Cross-Border Collaboration: Foster cooperation between nations to disrupt trafficking networks.
- Expand Data Collection: Improve trafficking data accuracy and coverage, particularly in underrepresented regions.
- Focus on Prevention: Address vulnerabilities caused by poverty, conflict, and climate crises.
- Support Survivors: Provide comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration programs for victims.
A CALL FOR GLOBAL ACTION
Covering 156 countries, the 2024 Global Report represents the most comprehensive analysis of trafficking since UNODC began tracking in 2009. Child trafficking and exploitation are increasing. Global stakeholders must act urgently. It is crucial to address root causes, strengthen legal frameworks, and protect vulnerable populations.
The fight against human trafficking requires a unified response. Only by addressing the systemic vulnerabilities driving exploitation can the international community make significant progress toward ending this global crisis.
