Human traffickers exploit digital spaces using false promises - IJM West Africa Director

The West Africa Director of the International Justice Mission, Anita Budu, has called for more collaboration in the fight against human trafficking in the sub-region.

Speaking at the media launch of the Blue Day, World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (Blue Day), Anita Budu pointed out that recent bursts of international human trafficking rings have shown that some collaboration is needed from all stakeholders to fight the menace.

She further asserted that one of the growing concerns in the fight against human trafficking is the gaps that exist in the digital space, which traffickers use to exploit innocent victims.

“We see how easily traffickers exploit digital spaces using false promises. We see how victims endure exploitation because safeguards failed before they left home. That is why we need to heighten awareness in order to forestall such unfortunate situations,” she said.

Anita Budu indicated that this area is where the media is needed. She said that the media, through reportage, can help bridge the gaps that are being exploited by traffickers.

She added that the media, through thorough stories, can educate the public on how to protect themselves from becoming victims of human trafficking.

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“And this is where you, the media, come in. You are not just storytellers. You are first responders to truth. When you report, you help to break the silence, challenge normalisation, educate, and drive action. Many cases go unreported because of fear, shame, retaliation, or fear of not being believed.

“But let us be clear: reporting can be done safely, either directly to the justice system or through trusted community leaders and even through responsible journalism. And when reporting increases, protection increases. When protection increases, trafficking decreases,” she said.



About the Blue Day

The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, also known as Blue Day, is observed annually on July 30.

The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness of human trafficking and to promote the protection of victims’ rights.

It highlights the global nature of trafficking, which affects millions of men, women, and children.

This year's commemoration, which will focus on trafficking in the sports sector, has the theme: “Human Trafficking Can End: The Time is Now – Blow the Whistle on Sports Trafficking.”

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