What is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons (TIP), is a modern-day form of slavery. It is a crime under federal and international law. It is also a crime in the majority of U.S. states. Find more answers to your questions on our FAQ page.
- Here are some important facts about Human Trafficking:
- Human Trafficking is the 2nd largest criminal enterprise in the world (next to drug trafficking) and is in position to become the largest criminal industry in the world.
- Traffickers profit approximately $35 billion a year. That is more than Nike and Google combined.
- Human Trafficking is the fastest growing criminal industry in the world.
- Approximately 27 million people around the world are in slavery today.
- Within the United States, over 100,000 children are trafficked per year.
- 17,500 foreign nationals are trafficked into our borders every year for the purpose of sex trafficking or forced labor.
- Because interstates 64, 95 and 295 all intersect in Richmond, it makes this city an attractive place for traffickers to do business.
- The United States purchases more women and children for sex than any country in the world.
- In the United States children are targeted by traffickers as young as 12 years of age.
- Approximately 800,000 to 900,000 victims are trafficked across international borders every year.
- The Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report is published annually by the Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. An electronic archive of previous TIP Reports can be accessed at . You can also contact the State Department office directly at to request a free hard copy of the report.
(some information provided courtesy of polarisproject.org)