Human trafficking is one of the largest international crime industries in the world, robbing an estimated 25 million people of their human dignity. It affects every country in the world and is present in almost every community. The magnitude of this dehumanizing practice can come as a shock, but by raising awareness we can help put a stop to its growth. 

How big is the problem?

A report from the International Labor Organization (ILO) found that forced labor generates $150 billion in illegal profits per year; this can include commercial sex work, domestic servitude, and agricultural labor. Perhaps the most devastating statistics are those indicating the widespread trafficking of children, some who are sold shortly after their birth. The ILO estimates that there are 10 million children globally subjected to modern slavery, many of which are sold into sex work.

The causes of human trafficking are complex and interlinked and include economic, social, and political factors. With so many factors to consider, it can be difficult to fight this worldwide tragedy. However, in this fight for the most vulnerable members in society, we cannot simply sit back and hope for a better world. There are several tangible steps you can take to fight child slavery and bring freedom.

Here are five ways you can help end child sex trafficking — starting today:

1. Get educated and raise awareness.

Start researching the facts and get to know the truth about human trafficking. The United States Department of State releases regular reports with global statistics and information on human trafficking. With so many victims, there are also many survivors. Listen to these survivors’ stories and learn from their experiences. Share these stories. Tell your family and friends. Advocate on social media. Be a voice for the victims who can’t speak out for themselves. 

2. Fight the demand.

Evidence shows an undeniable link between pornography and sex trafficking. Research has confirmed that those who consume porn (even if it’s nonviolent) are more likely to support statements that promote abuse and sexual aggression toward women and girls. The effects of porn on humans can also be physically detrimental. Exposure to porn is shown to create visible neurological changes by forming new, long-lasting pathways in the brain.

Pornography is a multi-billion dollar industry and has several undeniable ties to sex trafficking and sexual slavery. Sadly, complacency and consumption of pornography only fuel demand within the sex industry. An increase in demand for pornography means an increase in the number of women and girls trapped in sex trafficking. Avoiding porn, raising awareness of its negative effects, and fighting the demand can all reduce its visible presence in society and decrease the rise in its dehumanizing consequences. 

3. Vote and talk with legislators. 

Contact your elected officials and let them know that trafficking is an issue that matters to you.  Ask them to vote on legislation to tighten restrictions that fight human trafficking. If you live in the United States, it’s simple to find and reach out to your local representative. During elections research a candidate’s past voting history and connections to human rights issues and be sure to vote accordingly. Use your right as a voter to ensure those who hold elected office are held accountable. 

4. Learn to identify the signs of child sex trafficking.

Many of us think of human trafficking as something that only happens in remote parts of the world. However, the United States is among the worst countries in the world for human trafficking. Sadly, it happens in cities and towns all across the U.S. Pay close attention to your surroundings, especially when traveling, learn to identify possible indicators of human trafficking, and if someone or something feels off, don’t be afraid to take action and reach out for help. 

5. Support the work of rehabilitation centers and rescue missions.

With the devastating presence of human trafficking and sex slavery worldwide, there are growing numbers of advocacy groups and rehabilitation centers that bring hope to victims. Support centers like MercyWorks’ Sunflower Center work tirelessly to serve children who have been abandoned, abused, and trafficked and offer them a safe place to begin healing. With centers all over the world, consider contributing your time or financial support to ensure the rehabilitation of victims and an end to the cycle of abuse. 

How MercyWorks Helps

In the face of such tragedy, the mission of MercyWorks is to fight for the success, health, and prosperity of children in need. When children are rescued from human trafficking and placed in shelters, they need attentive love and professional psychological help to process and heal the trauma they have experienced. 

At the Sunflower Center, located in the Philippines — a country with some of the highest rates of human trafficking — we focus on therapeutic healing and psychosocial support for children who have been victims of trafficking. We work alongside governmental centers and other non-profit organizations to restore children to families and help them heal from their trauma, allowing them to find freedom and thrive.

Learn more about the work of the Sunflower Center and help us in the fight against child sex slavery.