What is human trafficking?

Human trafficking is the recruitment or movement of people by means of coercion, deception or force for the purpose of exploitation. Trafficking is a core protection issue that violates a person’s dignity, and endangers their life and physical security. It is a grave violation of human rights and a serious crime.

Trafficking is widespread, occurring in every corner of the world; it can happen either transnationally (with a survivor of trafficking crossing at least one international border) or domestically (within the borders of one country). Although trafficking affects different people of all ages, certain groups tend to be more at risk, such as:

• migrants, including refugees, asylum-seekers, stateless migrants and migrants deemed irregular by public authorities
• internally displaced people
• unaccompanied and separated children
• people facing poverty and lack of economic opportunity  
• women and children.

In emergency situations, such as conflict or natural disasters, people are more vulnerable to human trafficking, exposing them to heightened risk of exploitation.

The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s anti-trafficking approach is humanitarian and rooted in our fundamental principles. Our independence and neutrality make the Movement well placed to reach everyone in the communities we serve – our work is based on people’s needs and allows us to build trust, including with people who have been trafficked.

Our National Societies are based in countries of origin, transit and destination, and they work closely with local communities and as auxiliaries to government authorities. National Societies can play a role in:

• promoting improved identification and protection initiatives.
• raising awareness of the risks of trafficking
• providing assistance and protection to survivors of trafficking

To find out more about the Movement’s anti-trafficking approach, you can read the Movement Migration Strategy, Protection in the Movement Resolution and the Trafficking Pledge.

A note on terminology

The terminology we use is a vital part of helping people access their rights and psychosocial support.

Much of the legislation on human trafficking uses the term ‘victim’. This term emphasises that a person has been subjected to a serious crime or human rights violations. It can be used in a legal context or to access relevant support. However, the word ‘victim’ also suggests diminished agency, so in non-legal situations it is preferable to use the term ‘survivor’ or phrase ‘person who has experienced trafficking’.

The recovery process is about people gaining control over their lives and becoming empowered. Using the term ‘survivor’ can reinforce this.