How business travellers can help combat human trafficking

young child pressing button on airplace seat

An estimated 49.6 million people are currently trapped in modern slavery worldwide.

Human trafficking – which is a form of modern slavery – is a complex crime involving force, fraud, or coercion to exploit individuals through sex trafficking, labour trafficking, and domestic servitude.

Victims span all demographics and are often targeted due to vulnerabilities such as poverty, homelessness, or displacement.

With the travel sector frequently, and often unknowingly, used in human trafficking operations, it is vital that all those who work in travel, as well as those who travel for business, are aware of the warning signs of human trafficking and modern-day slavery and know when and how to raise the alarm.

Human trafficking within the travel & events industry

Law enforcement is responsible for prosecuting traffickers. But with over 60% of trafficking victims transported across international borders, those working in the travel industry or who travel for business, are uniquely positioned to help identify and report suspicious activities, playing an incredibly important role in prevention.

During major sporting and music events, traffickers can utilise the influx of people travelling into these hosting cities, meaning exploitation often increases during events such as the Olympics, World Cup, music concerts and much more.

This surge in activity emphasises the need for vigilance and proactive reporting from travel and events professionals.

Recognising signs of human trafficking

Traffickers often use planes, trains, buses, and hotels to move and exploit victims. Here are the signs to look out for when you travel:

Human trafficking in airports:

  • Victims may lack access to their travel documents or carry minimal luggage.
  • Clothing may be inappropriate for the weather or the individual’s age.
  • Signs of disorientation, restricted movement, or abuse may be evident.
  • Accompanying individuals may possess multiple mobile phones or be travelling with numerous young children.
  • Victims may have limited interaction or eye contact with others.

Human trafficking on transportation (planes & trains):

  • Travel documents may be held by someone else.
  • Victims may display fear, anxiety, or submissive behaviour.
  • Victims may be unaware of destination details or unable to provide a home address.

Human trafficking in hotels & accommodation:

  • Operations may be conducted from various types of properties, from motels to luxury hotels.
  • Reluctance to provide identification upon check-in and preference for cash payments.
  • Requests for rooms near exits, with no housekeeping services.
  • Victims may be unable to speak freely or left alone.
  • Frequent visitors at unusual hours and high consumption of alcohol.

 

Anyone who observes these signs should document the details discreetly and report to authorities or trusted personnel without drawing attention to themselves or the potential victim.

lady wearing face mask sleeping against train window

How Can Business Travellers Help Prevent Human Trafficking

Business travellers can make a real difference in the fight against human trafficking.

By educating all staff that travel to recognise the signs, such as other guests who seem disoriented or under someone else’s control, together we can become the first line of defence.

Implementing training ensures that everyone knows how to respond appropriately. Beyond training, we recommend establishing clear company policies that reflect a zero-tolerance stance towards human trafficking, and reviewing your suppliers policies to ensure all those in your supply chain do the same.

Developing a responsible supply chain

Our Modern Slavery and Human Rights Policy is aimed at ensuring the workers in our supply chain are not being exploited and that relevant employment, health and safety, and human rights laws and standards are being adhered to by all those we work with. Our supplier code of conduct also sets out the expectations we have of all our suppliers, contractors and business partners.

Marriott International is one business in the travel industry that is leading by example in the fight against human trafficking. Since 2016, they’ve trained over 1.3 million hotel associates worldwide to spot and respond to trafficking signs.

The training includes real-world scenarios to help staff identify potential trafficking situations.

Reporting Suspicious Activities

Quick action can make a significant impact in combating human trafficking. If you or an employee observe signs of human trafficking, it’s important to report them promptly, but discreetly, to protect yourself and the victim.

You can contact local authorities, hotel management, airline staff, or call a confidential anti-human trafficking hotline.

In the UK, organisations like Stop the Traffik offer resources and can assist in connecting you with appropriate local contacts.

By staying informed and aware, you contribute to a safer environment for all travellers and help protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

If you would like to find out how we support our sports, media and entertainment clients to travel more responsibly, please get in touch.

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