This year's global theme, "Leave no child behind in the fight against human trafficking," highlights the urgent need to ramp up efforts to stop child trafficking.
Critical messaging and toll free hotline information about Human Trafficking is strategically placed on screens throughout Bush and Hobby airports.
In a strong show of support for the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, 2024, Houston Airports is amplifying its commitment to combat human trafficking, with a particular focus on protecting children. This year's global theme, "Leave no child behind in the fight against human trafficking," highlights the urgent need to ramp up efforts to stop child trafficking.
Children make up a shocking one in three victims of human trafficking worldwide, and they are twice as likely as adults to face violence during trafficking, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa and Latin America are hit hardest, with children accounting for 60% of detected trafficking victims. Factors like armed conflicts, pandemics, economic hardships and environmental challenges make children even more vulnerable. The rise of online platforms adds to the problem as traffickers use technology to lure and exploit children, often staying under the radar.
Children are trafficked for many reasons, including forced labor, criminal activities, illegal adoption, recruitment into armed forces, and online and sexual abuse. The root causes are diverse, from poverty and migration to dysfunctional families and lack of parental care. To fight this, we need strong action at both national and international levels. Countries must prioritize child protection, strengthen laws, improve law enforcement, and put more resources into battling child trafficking.
As we approach the 10th World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on 30 July 2024, it is crucial to address the shortcomings and accelerate action to #EndHumanTrafficking.
Houston Airports has been at the forefront of addressing human trafficking within the Houston community. On April 20, 2024, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) served as the backdrop for a critical conversation on human trafficking, bringing together community members, politicians, business owners, law enforcement, private citizens, faith leaders, advocacy groups and survivors of human trafficking. The goal was to raise public awareness about the realities of human trafficking and the importance of awareness in rescuing victims and preventing future crimes.
Statistics show that airports play a crucial role in the trafficking network, with over 70% of victims trafficked through these hubs. Since 2019, Houston Airports has trained over 50,000 airport staff to recognize and respond to potential human trafficking cases and has educated more than 450 community members about the risks and signs of human trafficking.
“Our commitment to combatting human trafficking extends beyond our airport facilities," said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. "We recognize the need for collective action and are proud to lead efforts that bring together various stakeholders in this fight."
The efforts of Houston Airports to #EndHumanTrafficking have gained national recognition, including the 2023 Combating Human Trafficking in Transportation Impact Award from the U.S. Department of Transportation. This award highlights the effectiveness of the community initiative of Houston Airports and its dedication to this cause. Houston Airports is often invited to share its best practices at conferences focused on ending human trafficking, further inspiring others to join the fight.
"By uniting and empowering our community, we can amplify our impact and work towards eradicating human trafficking from our society," said Saba Abashawl, Chief External Affairs Officer for Houston Airports. "As we come together, we recognize the importance of education, vigilance, and support in safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals."
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As World Day Against Trafficking in Persons approaches, Houston Airports reaffirms its commitment to this cause, stressing the need for education, vigilance and community support to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals.