As a traveler, we’re observers and generally people watchers. It’s also imperative (almost your duty) as a traveler, to learn how to spot human trafficking.
Human trafficking is largely a hidden crime and it is happening EVERYWHERE. In small towns, in large cities, in developed and less developed countries. In airports, airplanes, and hotel rooms.
“[Traffickers] look for people who are susceptible for a variety of reasons, including psychological or emotional vulnerability, economic hardship, lack of social safety net, natural disasters, or political instability. The trauma caused by the traffickers can be so great that many may not identify themselves as victims or ask for help” (Department of Homeland Security).
Human trafficking comes in many forms
Sex Trafficking:
Sex trafficking is the use of force, fraud, or coercion to compel children and adults to engage in commercial sex acts against their will. Common examples are solicitation, personal sexual servitude, pornography.
Labor Trafficking:
Labor trafficking the use of force, fraud, or coercion to force children and adults to work against their will in many different industries. Common examples are debt bondage, forced labor, and child labor.
How to spot human trafficking while traveling and at airports
Warning signs:
A traveler has not dressed appropriately for their route of travel
The victim’s communication seems scripted, or there are inconsistencies with their story
They are afraid to discuss themselves around others, deferring any attempts at conversation to someone who appears to be controlling them.
They can’t move freely in an airport or on a plane, or they are being controlled, closely watched or followed.
Child trafficking (check for all the above and the following):
- A child being trafficked for sexual exploitation may be dressed in a sexualized manner
- A child may appear or seem to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- The child may appear to be malnourished
- A child may show signs of physical or sexual abuse. Watch out for bruises, cuts, scars, and cigarette burns.
- The child appears disheveled, nervous, scared and feels uncomfortable speaking or answering questions
- A minor is with her “boyfriend” or “girlfriend” who appears controlling and shows signs of physical and verbal abuse.
How to spot human trafficking in hotels
Also the same as above.
- Watch out for people paying in cash, especially with children
- If the victim does not have ID (hotels should start asking all adults for ID)
- If you notice different people entering the hotel room or waiting outside of the hotel room
- For children: the hotel is usually the last time a child is seen and the last chance before he/she can be recovered
Where does human trafficking occur?
EVERYWHERE. Big cities, small cities. Developed and developing countries. While traveling, keep eyes out when you’re in big cities like Los Angeles, San Diego and Las Vegas. But that triangle has expanded to include Phoenix and Colorado. Even Honolulu since it is the last stateside boundary before going into or leaving Asia. Watch out for big events like the Superbowl, the Olympics, conventions and sports events, especially where a lot of men go.
Actions to take to prevent human trafficking
Once you know what to look for, spotting human trafficking isn’t the hard part. The hard part is when you witness it, what the hell do you do? You’re going to be uncomfortable, scared, and stressed. Remember to BREATHE. Then, take action.
- NEVER ATTEMPT TO RESCUE THE VICTIM. This puts the victim in direct danger. Do not do this.
- Record the airline, flight number, airport of departure and landing of your flight
- Record the seat number of the potential human trafficker and child
- If possible, take a photo without drawing attention to yourself. If you can’t do this discreetly, DO NOT DO IT AT ALL. Make note of any identifying marks: tattoos, distinct physical features, and birthmarks (of the victim and the trafficker). Make note of their luggage, etc.
- Report your suspicions IMMEDIATELY to a flight attendant, gate attendant, or the front desk lobby. They are usually trained to deal with this and will call the proper authorities.
- Call the National Sex Trafficking Hotline: 1 (888) 373-7888 and report the same thing
- THEN LET IT GO. That’s all you can do. Now let it go.
- To be proactive without spotting human trafficking, upload a picture of your hotel room to Traffick Cam, where these photos will be used to determine where perpetrators of sex trafficking are committing their crimes
- Spread the word. Share this article and any other similar articles. Teach others how to spot human trafficking. Don’t assume somebody else will notice and report it. YOU NEED TO DO SOMETHING.
This list was compiled with help from the following organizations or articles:
- Airline Ambassadors International: Offers a human trafficking awareness program to educate airport staff about the problem.
- Polaris: Works to combat and prevent modern-day slavery and human trafficking.
- Free the Slaves: Campaigns against modern slavery around the world.
- International Justice Mission: Works to protect the poor from violence in the developing world.
- https://www.cnn.com/2018/03/05/world/anti-trafficking-organizations-around-the-world/index.html
- https://hownottotravellikeabasicbitch.com/how-to-spot-human-trafficking-while-traveling/
I hope you have learned some valuable tips on how to spot human trafficking and spread the word to others on how to spot human trafficking.
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Original Source: This article is from the website “Generic Dreams”. You can check out this article and more like it on the link below.
Link to Original Article: http://genericdreams.com/2018/08/21/learn-how-to-spot-human-trafficking
Amy Truong
Amy is a travel lover, thrill seeker, and writer. Besides her love for travel, she enjoys hiking the world or curling up with a glass of wine and a good book. She is a retired digital nomad and currently calls Hawaii home.
