wtlc


Human Trafficking Program

Human Trafficking is a serious problem. Every year 80,000 to 90,000 people are trafficked across international borders each year.  It is estimated that 80% of such individuals are women and children. Human trafficking has become a $9 billion a year global industry. Human trafficking is a multi-dimensional threat: it deprives people of their human rights and freedoms, it is a global health risk, and it fuels the growth of organized crime. 

Facts on Human Trafficking:

  • Human trafficking has become a $9 billion a year global industry and there are an estimated 27 million people living in slavery around the world today.
  • Every 8-10 minutes, a woman or child is trafficked into the United States for forced labor.
  • It is estimated that 14,500 to17,500 women and children are trafficked to the United States annually.
  • People are snared into trafficking by many means. In some cases, physical force is used. In other cases, false promises are made regarding job opportunities or marriages in foreign countries to entrap victims.
  • UNICEF reports that across the world, there are over one million children entering the sex trade every year and that approximately 30 million children have lost their childhood through sexual exploitation over the past 30 years.
  • In October 2000, the United States enacted the most comprehensive modern-day anti-slavery legislation in the world, offering significant protection to victims. It is called the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000.
  • In 2004, 7000 traffickers were prosecuted, and 3000 convicted.
  • Maximum Jail time for trafficking is 20 years to life imprisonment, depending on offense, and convicted traffickers must "provide full restitution to victims.

WTLC’s Human Trafficking Program recognizes the uncertain obstacles uniquely facing these individuals.  WTLC is equipped to handle and serve this clientele regardless of circumstances or background.  WTLC promotes and supports the rehabilitation of trafficking victims, and connects them to the available resources for legal, medical and other needed services. Human trafficking has a devastating impact on individual victims, who often suffer physical and emotional abuse, rape, threats against self and family, passport theft, and even death. But the impact of human trafficking goes beyond individual victims; it undermines the safety and security of all nations it touches. WTLC is working for the prevention of trafficking worldwide.

Learn more about what the U.S is doing to fight trafficking.

  • www.state.gov/g/tip/
  • usinfo.state.gov/gi/global_issues/human_trafficking.html
  • www.usdoj.gov/trafficking.htm
  • www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking
  • www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking/resources/plain_site.html
  • www.state.gov/g/tip/rls/tiprpt/2004/33186.htm