Human Trafficking

Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is the exploitation of men, women, and children for forced labor or sex by a third-party for profit or gain. The National Human Trafficking Hotline explains it simply: “Human trafficking is the business of stealing freedom for profit.” This is a global problem, with an estimated 25 million people enslaved worldwide, as well as a local one (International Labor Organization, 2017). A 2016 study by the University of Texas at Austin estimates that there are 313,000 victims of human trafficking in Texas at any given time.

Trafficking survivors actively seek services at sexual assault and domestic violence agencies across the state. While there are many similarities between trafficking and sexual assault, this population has different recovery needs and therefore requires a specialized response. TAASA works to assist our stakeholders as they navigate the challenges around serving human trafficking survivors. Please see the “Resources for Centers” and “How We Can Help” sections below for more information.