Understanding modern slavery and human trafficking
Modern slavery refers to the recruitment, movement, and exploitation of vulnerable individuals through coercion, deception, or abuse. It includes practices like forced labor, servitude, forced marriage, and child exploitation. Traffickers often rely on air travel to transport victims and use hotels to exploit them, making the travel industry a crucial player in the fight against human trafficking. According to estimates, profits from these crimes total a staggering US$150 billion annually.
Recognizing the signs of human trafficking while traveling
The business travel community has a unique opportunity to combat these injustices by recognizing signs of exploitation in our surroundings—whether in airports, on flights, at hotels, or even within our communities. Travelers can learn to spot potential red flags of human trafficking and take safe, responsible action when they suspect something is wrong. Here are some common signs to watch for:
- Lack of control over travel documents: If someone appears to be without access to their own passport, money, or tickets.
- Minimal or inappropriate luggage: Traveling with very little or no luggage.
- Disorientation or restricted movement: A person seems confused, restricted in where they go, or under instruction.
- Inadequate language skills or interaction: Limited language abilities and minimal eye contact.
- Signs of abuse: Visible physical or emotional distress.
- Unusual behavior of travel companions: A suspected trafficker may be seen with several young children or people who otherwise appear vulnerable. Further, they may avoid interaction or insist on cash-only transactions.
Steps to take if you suspect human trafficking
If you notice indicators of human trafficking, do not approach suspected victims or traffickers directly. Instead:
- Observe carefully: Make note of any specifics—locations, times, physical descriptions, and names mentioned.
- Report discreetly: Notify nearby authorities or security personnel.
- Use online reporting channels if needed: Organizations like ECPAT and A21 offer secure online reporting options.
BCD’s commitment to ending human trafficking
BCD wants to help end human trafficking. In 2017, we launched a global partnership with ECPAT, the leading international organization working to stop the exploitation of children through policy and advocacy. This partnership also aligns with our commitment to The Code, an industry-wide initiative that equips travel companies to fight child exploitation. Working with ECPAT allows us to bring awareness to the issue and actively support efforts to end the exploitation of children.
“We’ll never give up on the fight,” said Julie Stuckey, Managing Consultant at Advito and a member of BCD’s Human Trafficking Awareness Committee. “BCD is committed to educating people and creating awareness every chance we get. Every watchful traveler brings us closer to ending this exploitation.”
