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“Trafficking in persons,” “human trafficking,” and “modern slavery” are umbrella terms – often used interchangeably – to refer to a crime whereby traffickers exploit and profit at the expense of adults or children by compelling them to perform labor or engage in commercial sex.  When a person younger than 18 is used to perform a commercial sex act, it is a crime regardless of whether there is any force, fraud, or coercion involved.

The United States recognizes two primary forms of trafficking in persons:  forced labor and sex trafficking.  The basic meaning of these forms of human trafficking and some unique characteristics of each are set forth below, followed by several key principles and concepts that relate to all forms of human trafficking. (Source: U.S. Department of State) 

Human trafficking victims can be of any age, race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, nationality, immigration status, cultural background, religion, socio-economic class, and education attainment level. 

In the United States, individuals vulnerable to human trafficking include children in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems (including foster care, runaway, and homeless youth), unaccompanied foreign children without lawful immigration status, individuals with substance use issues, racial or ethnic minorities, migrant laborers, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI+ individuals, and victims of intimate partner violence or other forms of domestic violence. (Source: U.S. Department of State) 

The “3P” paradigm—prosecution, protection, and prevention—continues to serve as the fundamental framework used around the world to combat human trafficking. The United States also follows this approach, reflected in the United States’ Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 , as amended (TVPA), and in the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (Palermo Protocol) . In addition, a fourth “P”—for partnership—serves as a complementary means to achieve progress across the 3Ps and enlist all segments of society in the fight against human trafficking. (Source: U.S. Department of State) 

Governments and nonprofit organizations around the world are implementing various initiatives to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable populations. Governments are enacting and strengthening anti-trafficking legislation, increasing penalties for traffickers, and funding victim support programs. 

Many have established specialized task forces and training programs for law enforcement to identify and respond to trafficking cases effectively. Nonprofit organizations like Project Liberty are playing a pivotal role by providing direct support to survivors, such as shelter, counseling, and job training, while also raising awareness through public education campaigns. 

Collaborative efforts, including cross-border partnerships and information-sharing networks, aim to disrupt trafficking operations globally. Together, these initiatives are working to prevent exploitation, rescue victims, and dismantle trafficking networks.