We know that human trafficking is a complicated crime. But sometimes, there are simple actions that can make a world of difference to a survivor.
Last year, more than 1,600 survivors of human trafficking reached out to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline or Polaris’s BeFree Textline to get services and support. Hundreds of thousands more victims have no idea these lifelines exist—and are still trapped by their traffickers today.
By connecting with and supporting local efforts, the hotline allows victims to find the support they need and helps local law enforcement identify and arrest more traffickers. According to an independent study from Northeastern University, “the most important provision to increasing arrests is requiring the National Human Trafficking Hotline number to be posted in public places.”
Our own data also demonstrates the value of promoting the hotline. Five years ago, after the National Association of Attorney General promoted the hotline through a national initiative, call volume increased by up to 200% in states where the hotline was widely publicized by the state Attorney General’s Office. And just last year, Indiana saw a 67% increase in calls in the 30 days after their Attorney General launched a billboard campaign that promoted the hotline.
All around the world, anti-trafficking leaders are understanding how vital hotlines are to disrupting modern slavery. This month, the United Kingdom came one step closer to the launch of its national anti-trafficking hotline. We are excited to be working closely with the UK charity Unseen to help them prepare to operate the enhanced UK Modern Slavery Helpline and Resource Centre. We also traveled to Cape Town to share our data collection technology with A21 South Africa. By working together with hotlines around the world, we can not only strengthen the safety net for survivors globally, but share data and information to stop traffickers from harming more people.
One call at a time, freedom happens now.
In Advocacy,
Bradley Myles
CEO
Polaris
P.O. Box 65323
Washington, DC 20035
