Courtesy of United Nations’ Photo
Human trafficking is a major global problem. About 2.5 million people are victims of trafficking according to the UN’s International Labour Organisation. Over half of these people are in Asia and the Pacific. Approximately 800,000 people are trafficked across national borders (Source: US Government). Over 80% are women and up to 50% are children. Victims often suffer physical and emotional abuse, rape, threats against self and family, and even death.
Human trafficking is so common now that it is the 3rd most profitable criminal activity in the world after illegal drugs and arms trafficking. Criminals earn a staggering US$10 billion every year through buying and selling human beings!