Human rights groups estimate that 12.3 million and 27 million people are enslaved in forced or bonded labor, sexual servitude, child labor, or involuntary servitude at any given time, all over the world. An abusive and exploitative system where individuals are bought and sold like objects, sex slavery exists in a variety of permutations.All forms of slavery share several common characteristics. These include forced labor, poor treatment, dehumanization, and physical or psychological constraint. Unable to escape, individuals are treated with no dignity or human decency.
It’s important to note that 79% of human trafficking victims are women and girls-nearly 80% of these victims end up working as sex slaves.
Stop Sex Slavery By Raising Awareness
It’s unfortunate that slavery still exists in the 21st century, and shocking that too few individuals are aware of its existence. 66% of victims of human trafficking are women and 13% are girls-the average age of entry into prostitution is 12 – 14. The first and foremost step to ending sex trafficking is to promote awareness. The greater the number of individuals involved in the fight to end sexual slavery, the greater the chances of success. Creating an awareness campaign at high schools and colleges, open forums, supplying informational materials, and encouraging individuals to pledge are some ways to create awareness.
Stop Sex Slavery With Prevention
The root of sex slavery is gender-based discrimination and gender inequality, creating a situation where men are able to sexually exploit women experiencing poverty, racism, and abuse. The demand for paid sex drives the sex trafficking market-there will always be a supply to meet the demand. Sex slavery will continue until demands cease. Sex traffickers prey upon women in vulnerable positions, those with little means or lack of skills necessary for employment. Young boys and girls who grow up believing that women are only to be valued for their looks and bodies lack the knowledge of healthy and respectful relationships. Sharing resources with children about healthy relationships is one way to target the demand side of sex trafficking. Targeting teens and providing education about healthy relationships not involving violence or control is another solution.
Stop Sex Slavery: Victim Services
The goal is to stop sex slavery before it starts, however there are millions of victims tortured in the name of prostitution and sex trafficking. Women rescued from sex trafficking benefit from both support and resources when rebuilding their lives. This includes job training, education, psychological help, and frequently translators. Organizations provide programs to assist women in need of financial support by providing resources necessary to improve skills, education, and employment prospects. Opportunity awards for women assist in rebuilding their lives.
If interested in supporting local organizations work to improve the lives of women and girls, there are many ways to help. Learn more about how you can raise awareness about sex trafficking and help women fight poverty, exploitation, and victimization.
by Erica Ronchetti