Maïté Lønne, a survivor of human trafficking, spoke on “the use and abuse of technology” on the occasion of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
With the rise of social networks and globalization through constant connectivity, sexual exploitation is now inseparable from the internet. In a single click, whether in the European capital or elsewhere, cybercriminals can access the body of a child or a young woman. A large-scale awareness is essential in the fight against human trafficking, sexual and gender-based violence, and all forms of exploitation.
In collaboration with the Samilia Foundation
The voices of victims are the most powerful tool in combating human trafficking. This incredible courage is not given to everyone—Maïté is a survivor and a hero. Her testimony is invaluable.
*”This year, Belgium is highlighting a group of people who have long remained in the shadows.
Human trafficking is more widespread in Belgium than is commonly believed. It seems to happen in the shadows, in the dark, leaving victims almost invisible. Only a small number of exploited victims in Belgium receive the assistance and support they need, and most never have the opportunity to access help or exercise their rights.
To raise public awareness of human trafficking and the Blue Heart symbol, this year’s campaign aims to put victims in the spotlight. Three victims are highlighted in the Blue Heart campaign: a sex worker, a cleaner, and a beggar.
These are perfect examples of how human trafficking often goes unnoticed: they are exploited in plain sight, yet the people around them rarely ask questions about their situation or may not even realize they are trafficking victims.
The “Shine the Light” campaign invites everyone to stay vigilant and pay attention to potential victims of human trafficking. Only if everyone cares can we hope to have a chance to stop human trafficking.
This year’s theme focuses on the role of technology as a tool that can both facilitate and hinder human trafficking.
With the global expansion of technology use—intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic and the shift of our daily lives to online platforms—human trafficking has entered cyberspace. The internet and digital platforms provide traffickers with numerous tools to recruit, exploit, and control victims.
Crisis situations can also exacerbate this problem. Criminals exploit chaos, desperation, and the separation of people—especially women and children—from support systems and family members. For displaced persons, online resources can become traps.
However, technology also presents significant opportunities. The future success of eradicating human trafficking will depend on how law enforcement, criminal justice systems, and others leverage technology in their responses—particularly by enhancing prosecutions through digital evidence and providing support services to survivors. Awareness-raising activities about the safe use of the internet and social media, along with cooperation with the private sector, are crucial in supporting prevention and the fight against human trafficking.”*
—UNODC
