Understandably, human trafficking is a sensitive and serious topic that should be highlighted and spoken about more often. It is a global issue that involves slavery of not only sexual work but also slave labor where individuals are promised better opportunities but end up being overworked and underpaid. Unfortunately, this is also prevalent in big industrial companies that outsource their production to poor countries, hiring individuals of all ages with little to no healthcare or breaks. These individuals are exposed to hazards, poor working conditions, and verbal or physical abuse. It is no surprise that nearly 70 percent of trafficking victims are exploited in the private economy.

Although these companies are guilty of exploitation and harm, they continue to do so to save costs. They use cheap materials to produce clothing that is poorly made and overpriced. These industrial companies also exploit migrant workers who are desperate for a better future and take on seasonally-demanding jobs. Sadly, their last resort exposes them to trafficking, but this is overlooked by businesses who seek to keep most of their income.

This situation is more severe for sexual workers, as the sex industry is high-risk for both labor and sex trafficking. These innocent individuals are often kidnapped or brought from third-world countries and forced into a life of sex labor. Many of them end up in the United States, and while some are doing it by their own will, most do not and must endure a life of abuse and hardship.

It is a shame that these individuals endure terrible hardships while companies and traffickers largely responsible for their situations receive minimal punishment. Survivors of trafficking not only need support and recovery but also need proper compensation for their suffering. It is incumbent on every one of us to understand the severity of human trafficking, its impact on society, and the steps we can take to help eradicate this terrible issue.

Human trafficking is a heinous crime that has been occurring for decades and has become one of the fastest ways to generate revenue. Organized crime often view it as the third most profitable activity. This is because there is a consistently high demand for human trafficking, which in turn drives up the price. This immoral practice may be beneficial to some industries such as agriculture, which is able to offer low prices for products such as sugar cane, broccoli, and corn as a result of slave labor. Likewise, human trafficking can also provide cheaper labor for industries such as manufacturing and service industries, such as for child assembly line workers and domestic workers.

Human trafficking is an issue that is not given the attention that it deserves globally. We need to realize that human trafficking is happening at our doorstep and it is a problem that requires greater discussion and attention. If we do not take the necessary steps to tackle this problem, human trafficking will continue to increase. This issue connections with the activities of brand companies and traffickers who are both taking advantage of people's vulnerabilities to exploit them for financial gain. It is crucial that more attention is given to this problem and that those who engage in such activities are held accountable for their actions.

It is thought-provoking that human trafficking is often seen as an "uncomfortable" topic to discuss, despite the fact that it is happening all around us. Instead, we need to highlight the severity of this crime and show others the consequences of their actions. Reducing the demand for human trafficking and holding all parties involved accountable is the only way to ensure this abhorrent practice comes to an end.

References:

U.S. Department of State (2021). "2020 Trafficking in Persons Report: United States". Washington, DC: United States Department of State.

Human Rights First (2021). "Exploitation and the Private Sector". Retrieved from https://www.humanrightsfirst.org/exploitation-and-private-sector.