Professor, School of International Service
Founder and Director, Transnational Crime and Corruption Center, American University, Washington, D,C.
Human trafficking is the fastest growing form of transnational crime because of its low risk and high profits. No region is exempt from the problem of trafficking.
Trafficking victimizes more than just the individuals subject to sexual and labor exploitation. As in the drug trade, there are terrible consequences for the larger society.
Human trafficking spreads disease, violates human rights and increases societal violence. The profits of trafficking prolong conflict, enrich organized crime and increase governmental corruption. Greater public awareness, more effective law enforcement and public-private partnerships are needed to stem the growth of trafficking.