1. There are an estimated 27 million slaves in the world today.

Thats the highest recorded

number of slaves in history!
2. The average cost of a slave around the world is $90.
3. Human trafficking has been identified as the largest human rights violation in the
history of mankind.
4. Human trafficking is the second largest criminal enterprise in the world, after drug
smuggling and arms dealing.
5. The United States is one of the top three destination points for trafficked victims.
California, New York, Texas and Nevada are the top destination states within the country.
6. According to estimates, approximately 80 percent of trafficking involves sexual
exploitation, and 19 percent involves labor exploitation.
7. The average age of a young woman being trafficked is 1214 years old.
8. Immigration agents estimate that 10,000 women are being held in Los Angeles
underground brothels; this does not include the thousands of victims in domestic work,
sweatshops or other informal industries.
9. An estimated 13 million children are enslaved around the world today, accounting for
nearly half of trafficking victims in the world.
10. Trafficked children are significantly more likely to develop mental health problems,
abuse substances, engage in prostitution as adults, and either commit or be victimized by
violent crimes later in life.
Its important to note that human trafficking is a very prevalent crime against basic
human rights, a crime that has spiraled out of control right under our noses. But dont let
these troubling facts and grim human trafficking statistics overwhelm you.
Thousands of people both at home and abroad have been taking very effective measures
to combat the heinous injustice that is human trafficking. Things are a far cry from
perfect, but with new anti-trafficking laws, preventive measures, rigorous aftercare and
human rights agencies like our alliance partner IJM, who rescue victims of slavery on a
regular basis, substantial progress is being made.
How you can help
Let this quote by Elie Wiesel inspire you to take action: I swore never to be silent
whenever and wherever human beings endure suffering and humiliation. We must always
take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Refuse to be neutral.
Educate yourself on human trafficking issues. Spread the word. Stand for freedom.
Prayer Idea: Pray that this year we can save thousands of people subjected to a life of
human trafficking, that the preventive measures are effective, and also that the survivors
can successfully rebuild their lives and find security and happiness.