National Human Trafficking Prevention Month serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to combat human trafficking globally. According to Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, this period is an opportunity to "recommit to eradicating a scourge that assaults human dignity, weakens the rule of law, corrupts supply chains, exploits workers, and fuels violence around the world."
Efforts to fight trafficking require collaboration among local and international partners. These partnerships aim to share resources and information, equip front-line workers better, and address evolving trafficking trends. Blinken emphasizes the importance of involving survivors in these efforts to ensure policies are "survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and sensitive to the especially acute threat faced by minorities and other underserved populations."
The United States acknowledges that more work remains in combating human trafficking. The nation aims to highlight this issue in diplomatic discussions, form innovative partnerships, and tackle emerging forms of trafficking like online scams. Additionally, a recent Presidential Memorandum focuses on advancing worker empowerment and preventing forced labor by promoting respect for internationally recognized labor rights.
Blinken states that the annual Trafficking in Persons Report will be used to examine current trends, share lessons learned, improve coordination with civil society and private sectors, and identify areas needing improvement.
In conclusion, Secretary Blinken assures global stakeholders in the fight against human trafficking that they can rely on the United States as a steadfast partner committed to ending this crime.