Human Trafficking Surges Post-Pandemic, UN Reports

A recent United Nations report reveals a sharp rise in human trafficking globally, attributed to conflicts, climate-induced disasters, and ongoing crises, Arab News reported today.

In 2022, the number of known victims exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 25%, totaling 69,627 victims. Adult women represent the largest group at 39%, followed by men at 23%, girls at 22%, and boys at 16%.

Children accounted for 38% of detected victims, an increase from 35% in 2020. The report highlights that organized crime is increasingly involved in trafficking individuals for forced labor, including online scams and cyber fraud. For women and girls, 60% were trafficked for sexual exploitation, while men and boys were primarily trafficked for forced labor.

Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for 26% of victims, with significant increases in detected cases noted in North America and Western and Southern Europe, driven by migration influxes. Improved detection methods may partly explain the rising numbers.