How Poverty Fuels Child Trafficking

Human trafficking, particularly of children, is one of the most heinous crimes in the world today.  Let's talk about this important issue and uncover first what's the biggest "why" of trafficking:

What Makes Victims Vulnerable:

Victims can be targeted for various reasons, but one significant factor of vulnerability is when they are considered "marginalized." These are individuals who are underserved, disregarded, ostracized, harassed, persecuted, and sidelined within their communities.

Sadly, members of marginalized groups can be directly targeted for the horrific crime of human trafficking. This is especially true for certain marginalized communities that are seen as valuable and necessary for specific work areas.

Some examples of marginalized groups include immigrants, refugees, migrants, women and children, unemployed individuals, and people of a particular ethnicity or country of origin.

One of the biggest vulnerabilities is extreme poverty. Millions of children around the world are being exploited, sold, and forced to work against their will in order to provide for their families.

Another factor of vulnerability is caused by devaluation. Individuals belonging to marginalized groups, who are socially, politically, and economically devalued, are at a higher risk of becoming victims of human trafficking. Specifically, women and girls are often devalued by employers and clients, relegating them to the lowest positions in domestic and sex work.

Objectification is another vulnerability. Treating people as objects, dehumanizing them, and stripping away the victims' identities make it easier for traffickers to exploit their victims. 

Let's not underestimate the impact of support in preventing human trafficking. When people feel isolated and unsupported, they become vulnerable targets. Without the backing of friends or family, victims may feel worthless and desperate for any form of support, whether it be financial, emotional, or mental.

Lastly, traffickers prey on the insecurities of others, making them easy targets for danger and threats. Some of the most vulnerable populations to trafficking in persons include runaway and homeless youth, children and youth in foster care, displaced individuals fleeing violence or national disasters, disabled people, and those who have suffered abuse or exploitation at any point in their lives. 

Start Making A Difference:

We cannot ignore the fact that children's lives are being destroyed every day, and urgent action is needed to end this modern-day slavery. 

Here's what you can do to start making a difference:

1. Understanding the Problem

Child trafficking is a symptom of poverty, as many poor families are forced to sell their children just to survive. Children are also prone to labor trafficking, sex trafficking, and other forms of exploitation.

The problem is compounded by the fact that many children living in poverty do not have access to education or healthcare, making them more vulnerable to traffickers. Understanding the scope of the problem is crucial to ending child trafficking in areas of poverty. 

2. Addressing the Root Causes

To tackle the issue of child trafficking, we must address the root causes of poverty. This includes providing access to education and healthcare, creating economic opportunities, and empowering women and girls.

Education is one of the key factors that can prevent child trafficking, as it allows children to understand their rights and avoid being trafficked. Similarly, economic opportunities can help families lift themselves out of poverty and reduce their vulnerability to traffickers.

3. Protecting Children 

Protecting children from trafficking requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes providing them with safe housing, access to education, and legal protections.

In many areas of poverty, child protection services are lacking, making it easier for traffickers to target children. Governments and NGOs must work together to provide comprehensive child protection services and prevent child trafficking. 

4. Empowering Communities 

Empowering communities is another crucial step in ending child trafficking in areas of poverty. This involves engaging with communities, raising awareness about the dangers of trafficking, and providing support for families and children.

Community-based interventions can be effective in combating child trafficking, as they often involve working with trusted local leaders, law enforcement, and centers dedicated to providing targeted support to those most at-risk.

5. Ending the Demand 

Finally, ending the demand for trafficked children is essential to prevent child trafficking. This requires greater enforcement of laws against trafficking, as well as addressing the demand for cheap labor and sex.

Consumers can play a role in preventing child trafficking by being more conscious of the products they buy and the businesses they support. Ending the demand for trafficked children is a critical part of the solution.

Help Us Fight Human Trafficking 

Child trafficking in areas of poverty is a complex and devastating issue that requires urgent action from governments, NGOs, and individuals. By addressing the root causes of poverty, protecting children, empowering communities, and ending the demand for trafficked children, we can make a difference in the lives of millions of vulnerable children.

Make a difference in the fight against human trafficking. Protect the children.

Join us at Made for Freedom to support human trafficking victims and survivors and prevent others from being victimized by sexual exploitation, forced-labor, and other human trafficking and slavery crimes. By leaving a comment below and sharing this article, you can raise awareness and help us spread the word.

Choose to take a stance by purchasing our jewelry and apparel from our collection. Each purchase directly supports our mission with anti-trafficking groups to provide dignified employment for survivors and those at risk of human trafficking.

Together, we can make a real impact. Join the fight today.