You might be wondering, how is human trafficking still happening in today’s world?
Unfortunately, human trafficking and modern slavery is a growing issue in Australia, with the Australian Federal Police receiving 382 reports last financial year, a 12 % increase on the previous year.
It’s happening in everyday places across Australia, like restaurants, nail bars, airports, in our neighbourhoods, and even within our homes.
To combat this issue, Sydney and Melbourne Airports have teamed up to launch a public awareness campaign against human trafficking.
For the first time ever, the country’s two largest international airports have partnered with anti-human trafficking organisation, A21, to run the Can You See Me? campaign, with guidance and input from the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
This initiative has been educating people on how to recognise and report the signs of human trafficking since it launched in early November.
Digital screens and billboards at check-in counters, gates and baggage carousels at both airports are currently displaying images and messages stating that slavery still exists and urging people: “If you suspect it, report it.”
Cases include trafficking, forced marriage, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, debt bondage, forced labour, deceptive recruitment and organ trafficking.
Globally, data from the United Nations shows 1 in 3 victims of human trafficking is a child.
The Global Slavery Index estimates 41,000 people in Australia live under conditions of modern slavery.