When you and your attendees are traveling this summer, keep alert for the following signs of human trafficking.
Here are signs that could indicate an individual is being trafficked, and what to do if you see an incidence of human trafficking:
What to look for
- Minimal luggage/clothing
- Lack of access to travel documents and money
- Victim seems disoriented and lost
- Victim lacks physical and verbal autonomy
- Lack of adequate language skills for foreign victims
- Trafficker is seen with many young children
- Trafficker insists on paying solely in cash
- Victim and trafficker have minimal interaction and eye contact with others, especially with staff
- No evidence of return ticket; may have tickets to multiple destinations
- Victim has indications of physical and emotional abuse
- Trafficker/victim seem anxious to arrive at destination
What to do
- BE ALERT during large gatherings such as conventions or sporting games
- DO NOT confront the child or adult
- ALERT management, flight attendant, or airport security
- NOTE the room/seat number, names, and description of individuals
Who to call
If it’s an emergency, dial 911. In a non-immediate situation, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888.
For more information about Human Trafficking and also training specifically for meeting planners, contact ECPAT USA (718) 935-9192.
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