There has been a lot of recent buzz around the need to stop human trafficking within the United States even with the US ranking itself as Tier 1 (the highest ranking) in the annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report. If the U.S's global leadership in anti-trafficking efforts still warrants greater attention and advocacy for victims of human trafficking, what does that mean for countries that rank Tier 2 or Tier 3?
According to the 2020 TIP report released in June only one country in Sub-Saharan Africa is at Tier 1; Namibia. This means only one country in Africa has made sufficient efforts to address human trafficking and has complied with the minimum standards of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA). These standards ensure that governments are doing all they can do to thwart human trafficking.
Human trafficking is a heinous crime happening all around us. The victims—30% of which are children—are subject to forced labour, sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse. We must do more to bring criminals to justice, and help victims rebuild their lives.
António Guterres
Secretary-General of the United Nations
Although being ranked Tier 1 does not guarantee the eradication of human trafficking, there is greater prosecutorial success when law enforcement agencies and governments put in place laws and regulations to frustrate criminal activity and hold bad actors accountable.
In addition to calling on regulators, victims need to be heard. Advocating on their behalf allows the voice of the victim to travel across oceans and shed light on a dark situation for the many people who have been forced into modern-day slavery.
Search and Rescue - Africa (SARA) founder, Ethan Huffaker, saw a need that was not being met in regions all over Africa. SARA's mission is not only to shed light on the topic but to actively look for and rescue victims of human trafficking. Below are the 3 principles that define SARA.
Prevent. Ultimately, local governments have the greatest influence in providing the most preventative measures to vulnerable persons by implementing human trafficking laws and prosecuting perpetrators vigorously. Victim protection includes working with local governments to rescue and advocate on behalf of the victims.
Protect. Searching for and rescuing victims is part of SARA's mission to protect vulnerable persons from human trafficking. Victim protection includes working with local governments to rescue and advocate on behalf of the victims.
Provide. SARA has developed a plan to provide victims with shelter and services that ensure safety, reintegration, and education.
Human trafficking will not end if there are not forces fighting against the industry. SARA promises to be that force for good in the fight against modern-day slavery.
If you want to know how you can support SARA’s efforts, please consider donating to help us end human trafficking. A little goes a long way.
You can make a difference.