There are many options of implementation of anti-trafficking policies within a company. Companies can elaborate specific self-regulatory measures, such as codes of conduct and proactive policies which are adapted to their activities. Some specific initiatives may be undertaken by companies according to their sphere of operation.

Cashing in on the multiplier effect will increase the effectiveness of anti-trafficking measures. In today’s global economy, the combined effort of committed members of the business community can serve to combat the problem internationally. Businesses can leverage available resources and existing alliances and build on efforts that promote awareness-raising among employees, partners, supporters and other shareholders of the company. This in turn, can promote further cooperation for the anti-trafficking efforts with partner organizations and their staff and serve to have a multiplier effect. Further, businesses can take a tough stance against trafficking by signing on to the Athens Ethical Principles, thus making all they come in contact with, aware of their zero tolerance approach to any sort of human trafficking.

There are significant gains for the companies in joining the anti-trafficking campaign. The experience of many corporations in the past years suggests that the commitment to ethical business brings significant gains to companies. Similarly, the commitment to an anti-trafficking policy could ensure the safe operation of the company and the irreproachable conduct of its personnel at all levels, thus guaranteeing the highest distinction of its corporate image. Moreover, it would build trust and develop good working relations, especially contacts between multinationals and local communities. It also creates within its staff a feeling of pride in being a part of a company that adheres to principles and values that protect the dignity of the human being. Importantly, a company’s responsible behavior could also ultimately contribute to the maintenance of a sound economic environment.

Ethical businesses that actively seek to reduce the risk of forced labor and human trafficking within their own operations as well as supply chains, will benefit their bottom line by protecting their brand and reputation, ensuring and even increasing access to markets, reducing turnover and increasing recruitment and retention rates, as well as reducing the risk of future litigation or regulatory violations.

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