2024 Global Report on Trafficking in Persons

December 13, 2024

The 2024 Global Report on Trafficking in Persons by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) marks alarming trends in victimisation. A 25% increase in detected trafficking victims was reported in 2022 compared to 2019, which is attributed to poverty, conflict, and climate-related issues, which heighten vulnerability to exploitation.

Victim Demographics

Women and girls represent the majority of trafficking victims, comprising 61% of cases in 2022. Among girls, 60% were trafficked for sexual exploitation. Additionally, the number of detected child victims rose by 31%, with a notable 38% increase in girls. Boys are increasingly trafficked, particularly for forced labour (45%) and other purposes, including criminal activities and begging (47%).

Forced Labour and Criminal Exploitation

There has been a rise in cases of forced labour, with a 47% increase observed. Trafficking for forced criminality, including online scams, has also surged, climbing from 1% in 2016 to 8% in 2022. Criminal networks exploit forced labour for cyber fraud, while women and girls face heightened risks of sexual exploitation and gender-based violence.

Focus on Africa

The report places special emphasis on Africa, addressing gaps in previous data. Collaborations between UNODC and various organisations have resulted in the most comprehensive report on trafficking in Africa to date. Many victims are trafficked within the continent, driven by displacement, insecurity, and climate change. Children are often targeted for forced labour, sexual exploitation, or begging.

Covering 156 countries, the report offers valuable vital information about trafficking patterns and flows, also provides policy recommendations aimed at enhancing victim identification, improving protection measures, and encouraging international cooperation to combat trafficking effectively.

GKToday Facts for Exams:
UNODC: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime focuses on combating drugs, crime, and terrorism. It provides comprehensive reports, like the one on trafficking, to inform global policies.
Cyber Fraud: Trafficking for forced criminality, including online scams, has increased dramatically. It rose from 1% of cases in 2016 to 8% in 2022, denoting evolving exploitation methods.
Victim Demographics: Women and girls make up 61% of trafficking victims globally. Among girls, 60% are trafficked for sexual exploitation, revealing alarming trends in victimisation patterns.

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